Heroes of the Blues featured artist this week: Roosevelt Sykes

Roosevelt Sykes (1906-1983)

Heroes of the Blues Trading Tees Card #23

Art by R. Crumb Text by Stephen Calt

Roosevelt Sykes, known as The Honeydripper, was born in 1906 and learned piano around 1918 in Helena, Arkansas. His main influence was Lee Green, from whom he derived his 1929 hit, "44 Blues." He began his recording career while living in St.Louis and produced nearly 125 sides between 1929 and 1942, some under pseudonyms Willie Kelly and Dobby Boggs. Sykes continued as a post-war attraction and his career was enhanced during the 1960's blues revival.Sykes was inducted into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame in 1999.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this Keep On Truckin' Apparel exclusive t-shirt will be donated to Music Maker Relief Foundation.