The 5 Best Songs by Houston Stackhouse
Introduction
Houston Stackhouse may not be a household name like some of his contemporaries, but his contribution to the Delta blues tradition is both authentic and enduring. Born in Mississippi in 1910, Stackhouse was known for his slide guitar work, heartfelt vocals, and dedication to preserving the original blues sound. Although he never recorded extensively, his influence on the genre—and on later bluesmen like Robert Nighthawk—remains significant. Here are five of Houston Stackhouse’s best songs, showcasing his skill and spirit as a true Delta bluesman.
1. Cool Water Blues
“Cool Water Blues” is one of Stackhouse’s most haunting performances. With its sparse instrumentation and lonesome slide guitar, the song captures the raw emotional depth of the Delta blues. Stackhouse’s vocals drip with melancholy, evoking the struggles of everyday life in the rural South. It’s a slow, brooding number that shows how deeply he internalized the blues tradition.
2. Big Road Blues
A classic blues number first popularized by Tommy Johnson, “Big Road Blues” was one of Stackhouse’s favorite tunes to perform. His version stands out for its emotional honesty and gritty delivery. The song’s lyrics speak to the restlessness of life on the road—a theme familiar to many blues musicians. Stackhouse’s interpretation gives the song a personal touch that resonates with listeners.
3. Sweet Black Angel
This traditional tune has been recorded by many blues artists, but Stackhouse brought a distinctive flavor to it with his smooth slide work and steady rhythm. “Sweet Black Angel” highlights his ability to balance technical skill with raw emotion, making it a standout in his small but powerful catalog. The interplay between his voice and guitar reveals his deep understanding of the genre’s storytelling roots.
4. Kind Hearted Woman Blues
Originally composed by Robert Johnson, this song found new life through Stackhouse’s heartfelt rendition. He doesn’t just cover the song—he lives it. The subtle phrasing and soulful guitar work show how Stackhouse absorbed the influence of Johnson and other Delta legends, while still making the song his own. It’s a testament to his deep reverence for the blues tradition.
5. C.C. Rider
Also known as “See See Rider,” this blues standard was a favorite in Stackhouse’s repertoire. His performance blends rich slide guitar tones with a steady vocal delivery, giving the song a timeless feel. It’s a fine example of his skill in adapting and reinterpreting classic blues songs while staying true to their emotional core. Stackhouse’s version serves as a bridge between old-school blues and the electrified sound that came later.
Conclusion
Houston Stackhouse may not have gained the fame he deserved during his lifetime, but his contributions to blues music are undeniable. Through his songs, he kept the Delta blues tradition alive, inspiring future generations of musicians. These five tracks offer a window into his artistry—raw, genuine, and steeped in the soul of the Mississippi Delta.
If you’re a fan of traditional blues, don’t overlook Stackhouse’s recordings. His music is a hidden gem worth discovering and cherishing.
Comments are closed