A Conversation with Legendary Blues Master Roosevelt Twitty

by M. E. Saunders

Roosevelt Twitty grew up picking cotton in Texas.  He is a resident of Paris, Texas.

O: What does Blues music mean to you as a musician?

A: Blues music per say brings back to my memory things past such as my parents and family, working in the fields - the good old days as they sometimes say.
 

Q: Tell us how you got started with music.

A: When I was a kid as I listened to an old battery operated radio, I recall saying in my mind, someday I am going to make music and entertain people just like the one's I heard on that old radio - music such as Gospel, country, jazz  and rock.  In those days that was just about all you would hear on the radio.  To learn to play and sing became my primary interest.

I was eight years old when I began my musical journey that has spanned over sixty years and I am still pursuing my dream of being a great musician, that is unless my health completely fails me.

During my hey day I sometimes played most Friday and Saturday nights and then there would be a dry spell where you could not find any gigs, except maybe a house party or two.  Of course I did play in the Juke Joints and Honky Tonks, you know every musician must pay his or her dues by beginning at the bottom of the barrel! (Laughing)

Q: What are some significant changes you have noticed with today's blues from those of yesteryear?

A: A lot of changes have taken place that detract from the blues music, thereby making it something other than blues. Yeah, they are playing music but they are not playing the blues.  I play blues from the old school, music that is creative having a story line and morals.  Most blues musicians have lived the blues, therefore they can make the music come to life with an intensity that can make one happy, care free or even sad and doleful.  Blues music has changes and stops that are not a part of other music and that is what makes it the blues.
 

Q: What advice would you give struggling musicians today?

A: Keep a straight head, no drugs, trust in God, practice, practice, practice because practice makes perfection.  Most of all treat people the way you yourself want to be treaded, fairly and with respect.

Q: Why do you think you have lasted so many years with your style of blues and your unique way of picking?

A:  I refuse to give up my roots for modern changes in the way blues are being portrayed today.  I love to sing and play the real deal when it comes to my music.

Q: What are some of the hardships you experienced in your career as a blues man?

A:  The hardest part of the music business is trying to keep a band together, ie, musicians.  You will find that band members are constantly changing, to say it truthfully, it is a never ending process.  Also, during my career I lost my wife and family. This music world makes it most difficult to stay married and raise a family, because of playing in so many diverse places, leaving the family behind.  I missed a lot by being in this music business but, my music somehow made it seem somewhat worth the other sacrifices.

Q: If you had to begin all over what would you do differently?

A:  I don't believe I would change much in regards to music but there are a few things about relationships that I would work harder on making a successful and lasting commitment.

Q: What are some of your most memorable moments in your career?

A: Receiving a life time membership in the Paris Blues Society, having the Blues society putting on a big benefit to raise money to defray my medical woes. I also had a few personal friends contribute their finances to assist a friend.  If you can go through life and gain one friend you have accomplished something better than fame, silver, gold, and even money.  I have found much satisfaction knowing I have been a positive force in so many lives, young and old.  I am blessed, beyond measure.

To hear Twitty's music:  http://www.jamwave.com/artist.aspx?AID=3231

Bobbie Mercy Oliver