Bo Carter, born Armenter Chatmon in Bolton, Mississippi, was a key figure in early blues music. Raised in a musical household, he learned to play from his father, Henderson Chatmon, a former slave who played the fiddle, and his mother, Eliza, who sang and played the guitar. These early influences helped shape his distinctive style, which would later make him one of the most prolific blues musicians of his era.
Alongside his brothers Lonnie and Sam, Carter co-founded the Mississippi Sheiks, a renowned string band that gained widespread recognition in the 1920s and 1930s. His career began in earnest in 1928 when he recorded his first song as a backing musician for Alec Johnson. That same year, he recorded what would become one of the most enduring blues standards, "Corrine Corrina."
As a solo artist, Carter became one of the dominant recording acts of the 1930s, known for his smooth vocals, masterful guitar playing, and clever, often risqué lyrics. Despite going partly blind during this period, he continued to perform and record, solidifying his place in blues history.
In the 1940s, Carter relocated to Memphis, Tennessee, where he spent the rest of his life. He passed away in 1964 from a cerebral hemorrhage, leaving behind a rich musical legacy.
Carter’s influence on blues music remains significant. While primarily known for his guitar playing and singing, he was also proficient in bass, banjo, violin, and clarinet. His bold use of humorous and suggestive lyrics set him apart, making his music both entertaining and innovative. Today, his work continues to inspire musicians and remains a vital part of blues history.
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