The Lost Blues Archive Est. 1920 · Reopened 2026
About the founder & contact

A lifetime in music, kept for everyone who comes next.

The Lost Blues Archive is a small, independent project about a big subject: the musicians whose records, stories and reputations were allowed to go quiet. It is run by one person, with help from anyone who sends something in.


A Lifetime in Music. A Passion for the Blues.

“My journey in the music industry began when I was just 21 years old. Now, at 65 and retired, my passion for music—and especially the blues—remains as strong as ever.

I created The Lost Blues Archive with no pretensions, no commercial ambitions, and no claim to know it all. Just a sincere desire to help preserve the history, stories, recordings, and legacies of blues musicians, particularly those whose contributions deserve greater recognition.

I believe the blues is more than music. It's history, culture, emotion, and a heritage worth protecting for future generations.

This archive is a work in progress, and I warmly invite blues lovers, musicians, historians, collectors, and music enthusiasts to contribute their ideas, suggestions, corrections, and discoveries.

Together, let's keep the blues alive.”

— John Walker Founder, The Lost Blues Archive

The Blues Belongs to Everyone.

The Lost Blues Archive is not just about looking back. It's about making sure the music, the musicians, and their stories are never forgotten.

Some of the greatest blues artists never received the recognition they deserved. Others left behind recordings, photographs, performances, and remarkable stories that deserve to be rediscovered.

If you know of an overlooked blues musician, an important recording, a historical event, or a fascinating story worth preserving, we would love to hear from you.

Your knowledge, memories, and suggestions can help make this archive a richer and more meaningful cultural resource.

Every correction is read. Every name added to the archive is a small repair to the record.

Help Keep the Blues Alive

Have a story to share? A forgotten blues artist to recommend? A rare recording, photograph, or historical detail that deserves attention? Your contributions and suggestions are always welcome.

The Lost Blues Archive is sponsored by