This disc is produced by the Music Maker Relief Foundation, whose mission is to not just preserve and ensure the future of the roots of American music, but to raise funds for those elderly performers of this music who no longer have the means to support themselves. Not only do they assure dignity and quality of life for the pioneers of the music we all love today, but ensure they get the recognition they deserve.
Whereas people like the Carolina Chocolate Drops represent the next generation of musicians, Music Maker also produces albums with people and acts who have been playing unnoticed across the South for decades. These are the people, both black and white, whose creativity and passion are the real roots of the music we listen to today. Without them, it's doubtful any of what we hear and love would exist to this day.
The Carolina Chocolate Drops are an important step forward in guaranteeing some of the best music of the past isn't relegated to a few memories, but continues to be a living, growing, and evolving tradition. Not only are they a reminder of who came before, but they are also the present and, hopefully, future of American music.
Article comments
1 - Joan Hunt
Ah, Richard, you've been missing out on some fantastic music if you've never listened to Roy Book Binder (who frequently plays Piedmont style) and Nathan James & Ben Hernandez. I know many artists who embrace country blues and make a living playing it. We need to get you hooked up with some quality music, my friend.