The Very Day I'm Gone - Songs of Addie Graham
Release date: January 1, 2015
Stream and download from Bandcamp
Ballads from the British Isles; Primitive and Old-Regular Baptist hymns; blues from black railroad workers; Addie Graham heard it all and incorporated it into a vast repertoire that was itself a slice of American history. Born in the late 19th century, Graham never sang outside her home in Wolfe County, Kentucky until her grandson began taking her to festivals in the 1970s. Rich Kirby, who has himself released work on Appalshop’s record label June Appal Recordings, compiled Graham’s album “Been A Long Time Traveling” from recordings of his grandmother. Now in “The Very Day I’m Gone,” contemporary Kentucky and old-time musicians pay homage to the legendary singer with recordings of 20 of her songs.
“A sonic delight, “The Very Day I’m Gone” demonstrates Addie Graham’s relevance and resonance across more than two generations of traditional musicians. Her music is beautiful, varied, and evocative – even when sung by other voices.” – Jeff Keith