DeFord Bailey

Includes a new foreword by musician Dom Flemons, forty-five illustrations, and acomplete session discography.

A founding member of the Grand Ole Opry and the program’s first Black star, DeFordBailey (1899–1982) was among the Opry’s most popular early performers. Known as the “Harmonica Wizard” for his virtuosity on the instrument, he was also a singer,guitarist, banjoist, and composer.

For decades following his departure from the Opry, Bailey’s story was shrouded inmystery. This meticulously researched biography, long out of print, tells the story of apioneering Black star in early country music in rich and fascinating detail. The book’soriginal publication in 1991 helped pave the way for Bailey’s election to the CountryMusic Hall of Fame in 2005.