Writing and the Blues, The Cedell Davis Story

What moves you?

Art? Music? Literature? Life?

Blues and writing have many parallels.

What does "The Blues" have to do with writing?

I saw the Bluesman Cedell Davis' story in the documentary You See Me Laughin' and it moved me, deeply. Emotionally.

Cedell Davis was born into the poverty and racism of the Mississippi Delta in 1927. He learned to play the harminica and guitar at an early age but between the ages of nine and ten he was struck down with Polio. His hands atrophied from disease, he was no longer able to play guitar or harmonica. He was right handed and unfortunately, Polio took complete use of it.

Not knowing there were rules, norms, and conventions in music, it took Cedell two years to rethink and retool the way he played guitar. Since he couldn't use his right hand, he flipped the guitar over and began to play left handed, upside down. Because his left hand was afflicted as well, he adapted a butter knife to use as a slide, and different tuning to allow him to play.

He played around the Mississipi for many years, able to get around on crutches to most venues and juke joints. One night, a police raid caused a stampede that trampled Cedell on the bandstand. The injuries he recieved caused him to be bound to a wheel chair for the rest of his life.

His music is difficult for some, but his vocal talent is legendary.

To overcome poverty, racism, affliction, and still be out there, doing what you love, bringing enjoyment and music is an inspiration to us all.

As a writer, persistence, heart, faith, and passion will get us to the promised land.

Even if we have to flip our writing upside down, use a butter knife, and change the tuning. Break the rules as if they don't exist.

When life gets hard, think of Cedell Davis.