Biography
Jimmy DeBerry was an American blues guitarist, banjoist, and singer, born on November 17, 1911, in Gumwood, Arkansas. He spent his formative years in Arkansas and Mississippi before moving to Memphis in 1927 to live with his aunt. DeBerry was largely self-taught, beginning with the ukulele and later mastering the banjo and guitar, which became his primary instruments as he immersed himself in the vibrant Memphis blues scene.[3][4][1]
Throughout his career, DeBerry was an active, though somewhat peripheral, figure in the Memphis blues community from the 1920s through the early 1950s. He played with notable musicians such as harmonica player Walter Horton and drummer Willie Nix, and led his own group, the Memphis Playboys. His style blended classic blues with elements of electric Memphis blues, reflecting the evolving sound of the region during his active years.[1][6][5]
Though not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, DeBerry's musicianship and collaborations contributed to the rich tapestry of Memphis blues. He continued to perform and record into the later years of his life, passing away on January 17, 1985, in Sikeston, Missouri. His legacy endures through his recordings and the influence he had on the Memphis blues tradition.[4][5]
Fun Facts
- Jimmy DeBerry was self-taught on ukulele before moving on to banjo and guitar.[3]
- He was active in the Memphis blues scene from its heyday in the 1920s through the early 1950s, a period of significant musical innovation.[6]
- DeBerry led his own band, the Memphis Playboys, which featured various local musicians.[1]
- Despite his contributions, DeBerry remained a somewhat peripheral figure and did not achieve the same level of fame as some of his collaborators.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Memphis blues community - DeBerry was influenced by the broader Memphis blues scene and its musicians during the 1920s-1950s. (General influence on his style and repertoire) [1920s-1950s]
Key Collaborators
- Walter Horton - Played together in Memphis blues circles; Horton was a renowned harmonica player. (Live performances, possible studio sessions) [1940s-1950s]
- Willie Nix - Collaborated as part of the Memphis blues scene; Nix was a drummer and singer. (Live performances, Memphis Playboys) [1940s-1950s]
- Memphis Playboys - DeBerry's own band, with various local musicians. (Band performances) [1940s-1950s]
Artists Influenced
- Local Memphis blues musicians - DeBerry's playing and band leadership influenced peers and younger musicians in the Memphis area. (General influence on Memphis blues style) [1940s-1950s]
Connection Network
Discography
Top Tracks
- Take a Little Chance (Take a Little Chance / Time Has Made a Change)
- Time Has Made a Change (Take a Little Chance / Time Has Made a Change)
- Party Line Blues (Sun Records Originals: 52 Buried Blues Treasures)
- Time Has Made a Change (A Beginners Guide to: Memphis Blues)
- Time Has Made A Change (Best of Memphis Blues)
- Take A Little Chance
- Time Has Made A Change
- Time Has Made a Change (Best of Piano Blues)
- Before Long - Original
- Take A Little Chance - Original
External Links
Tags: #blues
References
Heard on WWOZ
JIMMY DEBERRY has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 17, 2025 | 14:14 | TAKE A LITTLE CHANCEfrom THE LEGENDARY SUN RECORDS STORY | Blues Eclecticw/ Andrew Grafe |