Red Nelson (musician)

Red Nelson
Birth nameNelson Wilborn
Also known asDirty Red
Born(1907-08-31)August 31, 1907
Sumner, Tallahatchie County, Mississippi, United States
DiedMarch 1970 (aged 62)
Chicago, Illinois, United States
GenresBlues
Occupation(s)Singer, guitarist
Instrument(s)Vocals, guitar
Years active1935–1960s
LabelsDecca, Aladdin

Nelson Wilborn (August 31, 1907 – March 1970),[1] better known as Red Nelson or Dirty Red, was an American blues singer and occasional guitarist. His recording career lasted well over a decade. Two of his standout songs are "Crying Mother Blues" and "Streamline Train" (both 1936). His accompanists on record variously included Cripple Clarence Lofton, Blind John Davis, Black Bob, Kansas Joe McCoy, Papa Charlie McCoy, Big Bill Broonzy and Lonnie Johnson.

His 1947 release "Mother Fuyer" managed to escaped censorship.

  1. ^ Eagle, Bob; LeBlanc, Eric S. (2013). Blues: A Regional Experience. Santa Barbara, California: Praeger. p. 189. ISBN 978-0313344237.