Re: [Harp-L] Re: what is ODBG ? (was creativity)



Let me preface this by saying that I personally have never used the term
"ODBG", nor, judging from the reaction it seems to invite, would I. However,
I feel that I wish to say something in response in this case.

Paul Butterfield was not "old", so therefore, not considered an "Old, Dead
Blues Guy"

As far as "marginalizing" the people that are considered "in this category"
(ODBG), I would rather, say that it, in a historical perspective, more than
idolizes these, putting them on a pedestal of honor. Personally, I would
feel a profound sense of accomplishment if I were to be considered, in
advance, that after my departure, I would inherit such a title, identifying
me with these great artists, the very forerunners of our musical corner of
the world. Would that I could last so long as to pass on as an "Old" man, a
master of his art. The descriptive word "Dead" may be unpleasant to some, so
it could be understood how, for instance, relatives of the deceased may
prefer another term. But the fact remains. Death is coming, at some point,
for us all. Would that we all could pass on with such a legacy, for having
given so many so much. "Blues" goes without saying. Which of those on this
list had it easy from day to day? "Guy"? Maybe this term shows the most
potential for disrespect, as it tends to depersonalize the man, reducing him
to an "unknown".

It's not worth arguing over, nor is it worth rubbing another's nose in the
dirt about.

How many old blues players were white? That in itself is the reason why this
acronym tends to represent a select group of black men. There just weren't
that many of other racial characteristics. It's not meant to isolate.
Rather, I would say it uplifts, in a very familiar way. Which of the "old",
"dead", blues guys are not close to all of our hearts?

Okay,,I'm done on this subject. Too much ado about nothing.


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Joe Lempkowski" <mr_jlemko@xxxxxxxxx>
To: <harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Sunday, May 13, 2007 9:28 AM
Subject: [Harp-L] Re: what is ODBG ? (was creativity)


> The Iceman writes:
>
> >Close, but definitely no cigar.
> >
> >It means "Old Dead Blues Guys" and refers to Sunny
> >Boy I and II, Little Walter, Muddy Waters, etc.
>
> I find it an offensive term.  It is merely
> coincidental that the term almost always refers to a
> group of people that happen to be black.
>
> The term marginalizes the contribution of black
> musicians and black harmonica players by referring to
> the players as a group, rather than by name.
>
> Rarely, if ever, are Caucasian blues players lumped
> into this category.  People like Paul Butterfield are
> always referred to by name.
>
> While this is a harmonica discussion list and blues is
> only a small subset of the music that can be played on
> a harmonica, the Blues has quite possibly popularized
> and advanced the harmonica more than any other musical
> form.
>
> Bottom line: It's a disrespectful term.
>
>
>
>
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