Please Warm My Weiner: Old Time Hokum Blues Album
I was flipping through the channels the other night when I stumbled upon an old black and white movie. It was a musical, and the music was unlike anything I had ever heard before. It was raucous, bawdy, and full of energy. I was hooked.
The movie was called “Please Warm My Weiner,” and it was a collection of old time hokum blues songs. Hokum blues is a subgenre of blues music that emerged in the early 20th century. It is characterized by its humorous and often bawdy lyrics, as well as its use of simple, repetitive melodies.
The History of Hokum Blues
Hokum blues originated in the juke joints and barrelhouses of the American South. These were places where people went to drink, dance, and listen to music. Hokum blues was often performed by traveling musicians who would sing songs about their own experiences, as well as songs that they had heard from others.
Hokum blues was a popular genre of music in the early 20th century, but it began to decline in popularity in the 1930s with the rise of more modern styles of blues, such as Chicago blues and Delta blues. However, hokum blues has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, thanks to the efforts of musicians such as Seasick Steve and the Carolina Chocolate Drops.
The Meaning of Hokum Blues
Hokum blues is often seen as a form of escapist music. It is a way to forget about your troubles and have a good time. The lyrics are often full of humor and satire, and they can provide a much-needed release from the stresses of everyday life.
However, hokum blues can also be seen as a form of social commentary. The songs often reflect the experiences of the poor and working class, and they can provide a glimpse into the lives of those who have been marginalized by society.
The Elements of Hokum Blues
Hokum blues is typically performed with a simple, repetitive melody. The lyrics are often humorous and bawdy, and they may deal with themes such as love, sex, and money.
Hokum blues is often performed by a solo musician, but it can also be performed by a band. The instruments typically used in hokum blues include the guitar, harmonica, and washboard.
The Importance of Hokum Blues
Hokum blues is an important part of American musical history. It is a genre of music that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, and it has had a significant influence on other genres of music, such as rock and roll and hip hop.
Hokum blues is a living tradition, and it continues to be performed by musicians all over the world. It is a genre of music that is both timeless and relevant, and it is sure to continue to entertain and inspire for generations to come.
Tips for Writing Hokum Blues
If you are interested in writing hokum blues songs, here are a few tips to get you started:
- Start with a simple, repetitive melody.
- Write lyrics that are humorous and bawdy.
- Don’t be afraid to use satire and social commentary.
- Use simple, everyday language.
- Keep your songs short and sweet.
Expert Advice on Writing Hokum Blues
In addition to the tips above, here is some expert advice on writing hokum blues:
“Hokum blues is all about having fun,” says musician Seasick Steve. “Don’t take yourself too seriously, and don’t be afraid to let loose.”
“Hokum blues is a great way to connect with your audience,” says musician Carolina Chocolate Drops. “It’s a music that is both entertaining and relatable.”
FAQ on Hokum Blues
Here are some frequently asked questions about hokum blues:
- What is hokum blues?
- Hokum blues is a subgenre of blues music that emerged in the early 20th century. It is characterized by its humorous and often bawdy lyrics, as well as its use of simple, repetitive melodies.
- Where did hokum blues originate?
- Hokum blues originated in the juke joints and barrelhouses of the American South.
- Who are some famous hokum blues musicians?
- Some famous hokum blues musicians include Lead Belly, Blind Lemon Jefferson, and the Mississippi Sheiks.
- What are some of the themes of hokum blues songs?
- Some of the themes of hokum blues songs include love, sex, money, and social commentary.
- How can I write hokum blues songs?
- To write hokum blues songs, start with a simple, repetitive melody and write lyrics that are humorous and bawdy. Don’t be afraid to use satire and social commentary, and keep your songs short and sweet.
Conclusion
Hokum blues is a unique and important genre of American music. It is a music that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, and it has had a significant influence on other genres of music, such as rock and roll and hip hop.
If you are interested in learning more about hokum blues, I encourage you to check out the following resources:
- The Hokum Blues Society
- The Mississippi Blues Trail
- The Blues Foundation
I hope this article has been helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Are you interested in learning more about hokum blues? Let me know in the comments below.
