Slim Harpo Vinyl Records Lps For Sale
Check out these new and used Slim Harpo vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Slim Harpo vinyl collection with the essential albums Raining In My Heart, Baby Scratch My Back and Blues Hangover. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from blues musicians.
Sings Raining In My Heart - Limited 180-Gram Vinyl with Bonus Tracks
$20.99 (as of February 5, 2025 02:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)I'm A King Bee
The Original King Bee
$40.00 (as of February 5, 2025 02:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Baby Scratch My Back
$28.99 (as of February 5, 2025 02:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)best of LP
$45.00 (as of February 5, 2025 02:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Slim Harpo: Tip On In [LP, President PTL 1017]
$55.00 (as of February 5, 2025 02:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Slim Harpo . Blues Hangover. The Legendary Jay Miller Session Volume 4
$21.90 (as of February 5, 2025 02:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Slim Harpo Knew the Blues
$27.99 (as of February 5, 2025 02:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Shake Your Hips
$30.00 (as of February 5, 2025 02:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Baby Scratch My Back/I'm Gonna Miss You (7"/45 rpm)
$12.99 (as of February 5, 2025 02:50 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Born as James Isaac Moore on January 11, 1924, in Lobdell, Louisiana, Slim Harpo emerged as one of the most distinctive and influential figures in the blues landscape. Renowned for his harmonica prowess, soulful vocals, and the ability to craft infectious, danceable blues, Harpo left an indelible mark on the genre. This article explores the life, music, and enduring legacy of Slim Harpo, a Louisiana bluesman whose impact resonates across decades.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings:
Slim Harpo’s journey into the blues was deeply rooted in the rich cultural tapestry of Louisiana. Growing up in the small town of Lobdell, he was exposed to the regional sounds of Cajun, Zydeco, and blues from an early age. The musical melting pot that surrounded him would later shape his distinctive approach to the blues.
Harpo initially honed his musical skills on the harmonica, an instrument that would become synonymous with his name. Influenced by blues harmonica greats like Little Walter and Sonny Boy Williamson II, Harpo developed a style that seamlessly blended traditional Delta blues with the rhythmic nuances of Louisiana.
The Early Music Career:
Slim Harpo’s journey as a professional musician began in the late 1940s. He initially recorded for the Nashville-based label, Modern Records, under the pseudonym “Harmonica Slim.” These early recordings showcased his harmonica virtuosity and laid the groundwork for the soulful blues that would define his later career.
In the early 1950s, Harpo took a hiatus from music to serve in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Upon his return, he resumed his pursuit of a musical career, eventually signing with the Louisiana-based label, Excello Records, which would become instrumental in shaping his legacy.
Breakthrough with Excello Records:
Slim Harpo’s association with Excello Records proved to be a pivotal point in his career. In 1957, he recorded the song “I’m a King Bee,” a blues standard that would solidify his status as a formidable force in the genre. The hypnotic groove of the song, driven by Harpo’s harmonica and rhythmic guitar, became an instant hit.
“I’m a King Bee” showcased Harpo’s ability to craft blues that were not only emotionally resonant but also eminently danceable. His soulful vocals, combined with the infectious rhythm, set him apart in a blues landscape that was undergoing rapid changes.
Chart-Topping Success:
Following the success of “I’m a King Bee,” Slim Harpo continued to deliver chart-topping hits. In 1961, he released “Rainin’ in My Heart,” a soulful ballad that further showcased the depth of his vocal abilities. The song became a crossover hit, reaching audiences beyond the traditional blues market and solidifying Harpo’s reputation as a versatile artist.
Throughout the early 1960s, Slim Harpo churned out a string of successful singles, including “Raining in My Heart,” “Baby Scratch My Back,” and “Shake Your Hips.” The latter, in particular, would go on to influence later generations of musicians, most notably The Rolling Stones, who covered the song as “Hip Shake” on their album “Exile on Main St.”
The Harmonica Sound:
Slim Harpo’s harmonica playing was a defining element of his sound. He had a distinctive approach that combined elements of traditional blues harp techniques with a rhythmic sensibility influenced by the Louisiana music scene. His harmonica served as both a melodic and rhythmic instrument, creating a dynamic and engaging sonic palette.
Harpo’s harmonica work was characterized by its emotive phrasing and a keen understanding of how to complement the other instruments in his band. Whether he was playing a wailing solo or providing subtle fills, the harmonica became an integral part of the Slim Harpo sound.
The Louisiana Blues Aesthetic:
What set Slim Harpo apart was his ability to infuse the traditional blues form with the distinct flavors of Louisiana. His music incorporated elements of swamp blues, Zydeco, and the rhythmic traditions of the region. This fusion created a sound that was uniquely his own, capturing the essence of the Louisiana blues aesthetic.
The laid-back, groovy feel of Slim Harpo’s music reflected the easygoing yet deeply rooted cultural milieu of the South. The use of harmonica, guitar, and a rhythm section in his recordings conveyed a sense of spontaneity and authenticity that resonated with audiences.
Impact on Rock and Roll:
Slim Harpo’s influence extended beyond the blues genre, reaching into the realm of rock and roll. His songs, with their catchy hooks and danceable rhythms, became favorites among rock musicians seeking to incorporate blues elements into their sound.
The Rolling Stones, in particular, were notable enthusiasts of Slim Harpo’s music. His song “Shake Your Hips” not only inspired their own rendition but also found its way into their live performances. The infectious energy and raw authenticity of Harpo’s blues made him a touchstone for rock musicians looking to connect with the roots of American music.
Later Years and Legacy:
As the 1960s progressed, Slim Harpo’s health began to decline, and he faced challenges related to his diabetes. Despite these difficulties, he continued to perform and record, leaving behind a legacy that would resonate for generations.
Slim Harpo passed away on January 31, 1970, at the age of 46. His contributions to the blues and his impact on the broader music landscape have endured. In 1991, Slim Harpo was posthumously inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, recognizing his lasting influence on the genre.
Conclusion:
Slim Harpo, the Louisiana blues harmonica maestro, left an indelible mark on the blues landscape. His ability to blend traditional blues with the rhythmic nuances of Louisiana, coupled with his distinctive harmonica sound, created a musical legacy that continues to captivate listeners today.
Whether through the infectious groove of “I’m a King Bee,” the soulful balladry of “Rainin’ in My Heart,” or the timeless appeal of “Baby Scratch My Back,” Slim Harpo’s contributions to the blues remain vital and relevant. His influence on subsequent generations of musicians, especially in the realm of rock and roll, cements his status as a true pioneer in American music.
SLIM HARPO Shake Your Hips on Excello blues R&B 45 HEAR
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SLIM HARPO Baby Scratch My Back LP Excello LP-8005 US 1968 Mono VG/EX-
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Slim Harpo Baby Scratch My Back Vinyl LP reissue of 1966 Classic Blues Album NEW
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Slim Harpo LP Baby Scratch My Back EXCELLO Original (1966) Nashville Matrix
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Slim Harpo The Best Of Vinyl Record Album EX Condition Blues Excello
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Slim Harpo - Baby, Scratch My Back - 1966 - Excello Label - Mono Shrink
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13 BLUES LP LOT MUDDY WATERS, SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON, ALBERT KING, JB LENOIR
$41.00 (7 bids) End Date: Sunday Feb-09-2025 19:00:01 EST Bid |
Slim Harpo - Baby Scratch My Back; I'm Gonna Miss You (Like The Devil) - 45 RPM
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Slim Harpo - The Best Of Slim Harpo - The Original King Bee (LP, Comp) (Very Goo
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SLIM HARPO The Best Of Slim Harpo LP Vinyl Record Excello 8010 Electric Blues
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Rare Blues LP - The Best Of Slim Harpo - Rhino Records # RNLP 108
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The Best Of Slim Harpo Album 1989 Rhino
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Slim Harpo - Slim Harpo Knew The Blues - 1970 Excello LP 8013 / Near Mint Cond.
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SLIM HARPO: shake your hips FLYRIGHT 12" LP 33 RPM UK Sealed
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SLIM HARPO: wondering and worryin' / strange love EXCELLO 7" Single 45 RPM
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Slim Harpo – Don't Start Cryin' Now - 1961 - Excello 45-2194 7" Single
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Slim Harpo Knew The Blues Vinyl VG/F
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Slim Harpo - The Best of LP. RNLP 106. RHINO. 1983. E Vinyl - nice
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SLIM HARPO Baby Scratch My Back 45 7" R&B BLUES SOUL Record Vinyl Excello 1966
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Rock / Pop $2.49 45's YOU PICK VG to EX - More added 11/24/24 (L3)
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