Cripple Clarence Lofton
Cripple Clarence Lofton (March 28, 1887 - January 9, 1957), born Albert Clemens in Kingsport, Tennessee, was a noted boogie-woogie pianist and singer.
The Life and Music of Cripple Clarence Lofton: A Blues Legend
Cripple Clarence Lofton might not be a household name, but he was definitely a legend in the blues genre. Born in 1887 in Kingsport, Tennessee, Clarence Lofton was a self-taught pianist who developed his unique style of blues music that earned him fans across the United States and Europe. Famous musicians like Count Basie and Nat King Cole were inspired by his music. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the life and music of Cripple Clarence Lofton.
Cripple Clarence Lofton was a versatile musician who played multiple instruments, but he was known for his incredible piano playing. Lofton developed his piano style by combining traditional barrelhouse blues with a boogie-woogie sound, which involved a steady left-hand rhythm and a right hand that played fast, complex melodies. His signature sound came from his use of triplets and sophisticated chord progressions, all delivered with a distinctive, percussive touch.
Lofton recorded for various labels throughout his career, but some of his most notable recordings are with his backing band, the Sunnyland Trio, which included Alfred Elkins on guitar and Jimmie Lee Morris on drums. One of their most famous songs is I Don't Know, a blues standard that became popular in the 1940s. Lofton's music was so influential that it's been covered by artists like Ray Charles, Otis Spann, and Pinetop Perkins.
Lofton was also a gifted songwriter, and his compositions focused on topics like love, gambling, and the struggles of African Americans in the early 20th century. His songs were often playful, and he used humor to lighten the mood in some of his pieces. Some of his other notable songs include Strut That Thing, Boogie Woogie Prayer, and Streamline Train.
Cripple Clarence Lofton was an integral part of the Chicago blues scene of the 1930s and 1940s. He played in several clubs in the city, including the Bluebird Club, the Plantation Club, and Smitty's Corner. He was a frequent performer on the popular WGN radio station in Chicago, and he hosted a radio show called The Cripple Clarence Lofton Trio.
In terms of concerts, one of Lofton's most memorable performances was at the 1960 Newport Jazz Festival. This performance was significant because it brought attention to the blues genre, which was not as well-known at the time. His style and sound influenced many of the blues musicians who followed him, and his music continues to be celebrated today.
Critic Nat Hentoff once said of Cripple Clarence Lofton, He had a unique style, a very percussive style of piano playing that cut through all of the other instruments. He was very much a piano player's piano player. You didn't just listen to his music; you felt it. His music has resonated with many music fans over the years, and his enduring legacy is a testament to his talent and dedication to the blues genre.
Cripple Clarence Lofton may not be as well-known today, but his influence on the blues genre cannot be overstated. Lofton was a gifted musician who blended traditional blues styles with boogie-woogie to create a sound that was uniquely his own. His music has been celebrated for decades, and his contributions to the blues genre continue to inspire musicians today. If you're a fan of the blues, take a moment to explore Cripple Clarence Lofton's music. You won't be disappointed.
The Life and Music of Cripple Clarence Lofton: A Blues Legend
Cripple Clarence Lofton might not be a household name, but he was definitely a legend in the blues genre. Born in 1887 in Kingsport, Tennessee, Clarence Lofton was a self-taught pianist who developed his unique style of blues music that earned him fans across the United States and Europe. Famous musicians like Count Basie and Nat King Cole were inspired by his music. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the life and music of Cripple Clarence Lofton.
Cripple Clarence Lofton was a versatile musician who played multiple instruments, but he was known for his incredible piano playing. Lofton developed his piano style by combining traditional barrelhouse blues with a boogie-woogie sound, which involved a steady left-hand rhythm and a right hand that played fast, complex melodies. His signature sound came from his use of triplets and sophisticated chord progressions, all delivered with a distinctive, percussive touch.
Lofton recorded for various labels throughout his career, but some of his most notable recordings are with his backing band, the Sunnyland Trio, which included Alfred Elkins on guitar and Jimmie Lee Morris on drums. One of their most famous songs is I Don't Know, a blues standard that became popular in the 1940s. Lofton's music was so influential that it's been covered by artists like Ray Charles, Otis Spann, and Pinetop Perkins.
Lofton was also a gifted songwriter, and his compositions focused on topics like love, gambling, and the struggles of African Americans in the early 20th century. His songs were often playful, and he used humor to lighten the mood in some of his pieces. Some of his other notable songs include Strut That Thing, Boogie Woogie Prayer, and Streamline Train.
Cripple Clarence Lofton was an integral part of the Chicago blues scene of the 1930s and 1940s. He played in several clubs in the city, including the Bluebird Club, the Plantation Club, and Smitty's Corner. He was a frequent performer on the popular WGN radio station in Chicago, and he hosted a radio show called The Cripple Clarence Lofton Trio.
In terms of concerts, one of Lofton's most memorable performances was at the 1960 Newport Jazz Festival. This performance was significant because it brought attention to the blues genre, which was not as well-known at the time. His style and sound influenced many of the blues musicians who followed him, and his music continues to be celebrated today.
Critic Nat Hentoff once said of Cripple Clarence Lofton, He had a unique style, a very percussive style of piano playing that cut through all of the other instruments. He was very much a piano player's piano player. You didn't just listen to his music; you felt it. His music has resonated with many music fans over the years, and his enduring legacy is a testament to his talent and dedication to the blues genre.
Cripple Clarence Lofton may not be as well-known today, but his influence on the blues genre cannot be overstated. Lofton was a gifted musician who blended traditional blues styles with boogie-woogie to create a sound that was uniquely his own. His music has been celebrated for decades, and his contributions to the blues genre continue to inspire musicians today. If you're a fan of the blues, take a moment to explore Cripple Clarence Lofton's music. You won't be disappointed.
Genres:
LISTEN THE BEST CRIPPLE CLARENCE LOFTON SONGS IN STREAMING
2022-11-01
The Musical Biography of Cripple Clarence Lofton: His Life, Albums, and Hit Songs
The world of music has seen numerous legends who have contributed something unique and special to the art form. Cripple Clarence Lofton is one such legendary musical figure who gained fame in the early 1900s. He was known for his energetic style of piano playing and captivating performances. With his distinct sound, Lofton carved out a niche for himself in the music industry, and his influence can still be felt in contemporary music today. So let's delve into the musical biography of one of the most iconic musicians of the early 1900s - Cripple Clarence Lofton.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Cripple Clarence Lofton was born in 1887 in Kentucky. He was a child prodigy who displayed exceptional musical talent at a very young age. Despite being blind, he learned how to play the piano by the age of six. Lofton was mostly self-taught, but he did have some formal education in music theory and harmony. Throughout his teenage years, he played music in various clubs and bars throughout the southern United States.
The Making of a Musical Legend
In the 1920s, Cripple Clarence Lofton moved to Chicago, where he became a regular performer at the famous Club DeLisa. His style of music was unique and quickly became popular among audiences. Lofton blended together blues, jazz, and boogie-woogie genres to create a sound that was both innovative and fun. He quickly gained a reputation as an exceptional pianist and musician.
Popular Albums by Cripple Clarence Lofton
Cripple Clarence Lofton recorded several albums throughout his career, but three of them stand out: Barrelhouse Piano, Cripple Clarence Lofton Vol1, and Cripple Clarence Lofton Vol. 2. These albums showcase Lofton's versatility as a pianist and present a range of styles from blues to ragtime. Barrelhouse Piano features slower, more soulful music, while Cripple Clarence Lofton Vol1 and Vol. 2 showcase the faster, upbeat boogie-woogie style that Lofton was famous for.
Career Highlights: Famous Songs by Cripple Clarence Lofton
Cripple Clarence Lofton is best known for his song I Don't Know. This song has been covered by numerous artists and showcases Lofton's signature boogie-woogie sound. He is also known for his performances of Pinetop's Boogie Woogie, and Streamline Train. Lofton's music was fast-paced, fun, and always leaves a lasting impression on its listeners.
Cripple Clarence Lofton's contribution to the world of music cannot be overstated. His unique style of piano playing and music performances paved the way for several generations of musicians. Despite his evident talent, Lofton's influence was not recognized fully until the later stages of his life. However, with the continued popularity of his music and innovative style, his legacy has only grown. Today there is no shortage of musicians who have borrowed from or emulated Lofton's musical genius. And with that, we bid adieu to one of the greatest musical figures of the early 1900s.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Cripple Clarence Lofton was born in 1887 in Kentucky. He was a child prodigy who displayed exceptional musical talent at a very young age. Despite being blind, he learned how to play the piano by the age of six. Lofton was mostly self-taught, but he did have some formal education in music theory and harmony. Throughout his teenage years, he played music in various clubs and bars throughout the southern United States.
The Making of a Musical Legend
In the 1920s, Cripple Clarence Lofton moved to Chicago, where he became a regular performer at the famous Club DeLisa. His style of music was unique and quickly became popular among audiences. Lofton blended together blues, jazz, and boogie-woogie genres to create a sound that was both innovative and fun. He quickly gained a reputation as an exceptional pianist and musician.
Popular Albums by Cripple Clarence Lofton
Cripple Clarence Lofton recorded several albums throughout his career, but three of them stand out: Barrelhouse Piano, Cripple Clarence Lofton Vol1, and Cripple Clarence Lofton Vol. 2. These albums showcase Lofton's versatility as a pianist and present a range of styles from blues to ragtime. Barrelhouse Piano features slower, more soulful music, while Cripple Clarence Lofton Vol1 and Vol. 2 showcase the faster, upbeat boogie-woogie style that Lofton was famous for.
Career Highlights: Famous Songs by Cripple Clarence Lofton
Cripple Clarence Lofton is best known for his song I Don't Know. This song has been covered by numerous artists and showcases Lofton's signature boogie-woogie sound. He is also known for his performances of Pinetop's Boogie Woogie, and Streamline Train. Lofton's music was fast-paced, fun, and always leaves a lasting impression on its listeners.
Cripple Clarence Lofton's contribution to the world of music cannot be overstated. His unique style of piano playing and music performances paved the way for several generations of musicians. Despite his evident talent, Lofton's influence was not recognized fully until the later stages of his life. However, with the continued popularity of his music and innovative style, his legacy has only grown. Today there is no shortage of musicians who have borrowed from or emulated Lofton's musical genius. And with that, we bid adieu to one of the greatest musical figures of the early 1900s.
Tag: Cripple Clarence Lofton, musical biography, best songs, playlist
SONGS OF CRIPPLE CLARENCE LOFTON - THE BEST SONGS OF THE ARTIST
1 - Strut That Thing
2 - Streamline Train
3 - Policy Blues
4 - Mercy Blues
5 - Sweet Tooth
6 - The Fives
7 - Lofty Blues
8 - More Motion
9 - Juice Joint
10 - Brown Skin Girls
11 - Monkey Man Blues
12 - I Don't Know
DISCOGRAPHY OF CRIPPLE CLARENCE LOFTON