Blues History, Past & Present
Madison Blues Society honors women and men, past and present, whose self-expression of poem, phrase tell a story of their own hopes and hurts with unparalleled authentic intensity.
We strive to share the history and influences of blues music as it evolved prior to the turn of the century to its current incarnation. In a small way we wish to hope to add to the current body of knowledge by reflecting on blues musicians of the past and today.
Through these pages, we highlight their contributions and how these everyday people move our hearts and enrich our world with their talent, energy and lyrical genius.

Blues Artist Lists
Blues Greats Series
This series provides downloadable artist summary sheets which highlights those blues artists who created and shaped the genre through time. Download and/or Share! Let us know if you are enjoying these artist fact sheets.
Blues Greats Series
- Blues Greats: Women who helped create and shape the Blues (Interactive Table)
- Blues Greats: Henry Blind Lemon (PDF, download)
- Blues Greats: Lightn’ Hopkins (PDF, download)
- Blues Greats: Son House (PDF, download)
History of the Blues
Historical Roots of Blues in America
(The African American Intellectual History Society (AAIHS) )
The African American Intellectual History Society (AAIHS) is an independent scholarly organization that aims to foster dialogue about researching, writing, and teaching black thought and culture. AAIHS originally began as a blog founded by Christopher Cameron in early 2014.
What is the history of the blues? (The Collector)
The Collector is a site with “A collection of great stories that teach, inform, and inspire millions of readers. Exclusively authored by academics. Trusted by scholars and classrooms.”

