Red Nelson | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Nelson Wilborn |
| Also known as | Dirty Red |
| Born | August 31, 1907 Sumner, Tallahatchie County, Mississippi, United States |
| Died | March 1970 (aged 62) Chicago, Illinois, United States |
| Genres | Blues |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, guitarist |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals, guitar |
| Years active | 1935–1960s |
| Labels | Decca, 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.