Cotton Eyed Joe - a Texas fiddle anthem

Bob Wills would be 110 today. Born on March 6, 1905 in Kosse, TX, the Kin of Western Swing still lives in the hearts and ears of many. In fact, Ray Benson and Asleep at the Wheel just released their millionth tribute to Bob Wills album, Still the King: Celebrating the Music of Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys. It is currently being featured as the Texas Style Guitar Backup Blog Featured Album above. Check it out if you haven't already!


In honor of Bob's birthday, we take a look at what is considered by many, a true Texas anthem. That's right, Cotton Eyed Joe! This tune is played by many across the US and in different ways, naturally. You may be familiar with the pop-country mega hit, "Where Did You Come From Cotton Eyed Joe"... Listen to how Bob Wills plays the tune. Bob was an old time fiddler who grew up about an hour and 45 minutes south of Dallas, TX. Here, his band, the Texas Playboys back him on the tune. The backup is simple, yet driving and played on electric guitar. But don't let that fool you. The groove is excellent, danceable, with appropriate runs pleasing to the ear. Not too much, but not too little... Enjoy this Texas anthem and Happy Birthday, Bob! May you forever rest in peace.

Thanks to the following sources:

Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org

MrHellvis69 - youtube.com/user/MrHellvis69

Free Texas Backup Chord Diagram for Sally Johnson

Listen to this Sally Johnson recording from Texas. It features Ervin Solomon on fiddle and Joe Hughes on guitar. Click below the image of Ervin below and you will be directed to a site where you can hear the recording.

Ervin Solomon

http://www.fiddlersfrolics.com/ervin-solomon.html

For an in - depth study on this part, I refer you to old time guitar master, John Schwab. In his book, Old-Time Backup Guitar: Learn From the Masters, he considers this recording, including slowed down samples (3 different speeds) and tablature showing you exactly what was played on the recording. I highly recommend it! In fact, if you click the image below, you can order it right now.

Here is a freebie! This is a simple chord diagram I have prepared to get you started. It is not a substitute for the above book, nor is it a substitute from lessons! Download and use this freebie, then bring your questions to me. This example is a terrific study on the role of backup guitar. Beginners need to know this approach and experienced vets would do well to keep this exercise fresh in their toolbox. Download this free chord diagram and learn it!

Sally Johnson Simple Backup Chord Diagram Free Download

Thanks to the following sources:

Fiddlers Frolics - www.fiddlersfrolics.com

John Schwab - l-century.com

Listen to the Earliest Example of Fiddle Backup Ever Recorded

Did you realize that the earliest example of fiddle backup in existence is also the earliest example of Texas style backup in existence? In fact, It is widely speculated that this recording spawned what we know today as country music. I recommend purchasing these recordings for your own library. Download the MP3 Eck Robertson: Old-Time Texas Fiddler. This earliest example of fiddling in existence today should be standard in any collector's library.

Let's get into the music. Listen to this YouTube video of the moment. Please note, I recommend purchasing the album for yourself, but take a moment and listen. 

Note the backup... Just Eck and his fiddle grooving sans backup. A true fiddler carrying the melody, harmony and groove all by himself. Impeccable. 

Now listen to another track recorded during that session. 

Two fiddlers, Eck Robertson and Henry Gilliland, often playing octave melodies, sometimes harmonizing, sometimes counterpoint. The groove is terrific. The backup is non-existent...or is it... How could a guitarist or other backup player improve upon this? Leave your thoughts below. 

Thanks to the following sources:
Texas State Historical Association
53jaybop Youtube Channel
Banjerholler Youtube Channel