Though there are about 236 version of Baby Please Don’t Go, I have my favourites and I still find it hard to beat the classic rendition from Them, released in 1964!!
Such is its appeal, this song has been covered by many artists, in so many ways over the years and has been labelled as “one of the most played, arranged, and rearranged pieces in blues history” by music historian Gerard Herzhaft. It’s origins have been traced back to an old folk theme called ‘Long John’ which dates back to the times of slavery and its roots go back to the nineteenth century American songs that dealt with themes of imprisonment.
It’s rise to fame came when Delta blues musician Big Joe Williams unleashed his glorious version in 1935, this put the song well and truly on the blues map. Since then has since been recorded by so many other musicians including (to name only a teeny few), Lightnin’ Hopkins (1949), Mose Allison (1960), Rose Mitchell (1954) and The Doors (1966)…there are sooo many more renditions to explore!
Mississippi Fred McDowell’s tribute to this old blues gem was recorded in 1969 and I love it! I love how the guitar chugs along like a weathered train and the hypnotic power of its pace; the witchery of the spell only heightened by McDowell’s potent vocals! It’s one of my favourite versions!
Check it out above and listen (read) some more about Mississippi Fred McDowell on my page, here.
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