Odell Harris

Biography

Odell Harris was a Mississippi-born blues musician renowned for his raw, electrified country blues style. Emerging from the hills of North Mississippi, Harris spent decades playing music in relative obscurity, often performing in local juke joints and informal gatherings. Despite his lifelong dedication to the blues and connections to many legendary musicians, Harris did not make his recording debut until 2006, when Broke and Hungry Records released his album 'Searching for Odell Harris.'[1][2]

His music is characterized by ragged, heavily amplified country blues, drawing comparisons to the works of R.L. Burnside and Junior Kimbrough, as well as his uncle, the famed blues guitarist Albert King. Harris's only known album quickly became a staple for Delta and Hill Country blues enthusiasts, praised for its authenticity and energy. The recording session for 'Searching for Odell Harris' was reportedly an all-night, alcohol-fueled affair on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, further adding to the mystique surrounding Harris’s life and career.[1]

Odell Harris passed away at the age of 75 in Harvey, Louisiana, leaving behind a legacy as a 'wild man of the blues.' His brief but impactful recording career and his connections to major figures in the blues world have cemented his status as a cult favorite among blues aficionados, even as much of his life remains shrouded in mystery.[1]

Fun Facts

• Odell Harris only recorded his debut album at age 66, after decades of performing without any official releases.
• The recording session for 'Searching for Odell Harris' was completed in a single, all-night session fueled by alcohol.
• After his album release, Harris vanished for years, adding to his reputation as a mysterious figure in blues music.
• His connections include friendships with blues legends R.L. Burnside and Junior Kimbrough.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Albert King - Odell Harris's uncle and a major stylistic influence, known for pioneering electric blues guitar. (General influence, no specific collaborative works documented.) [Childhood and early career]

Key Collaborators

• Bill Abel - Accompanied Harris on his debut album. (Searching for Odell Harris) [2006]
• Lightnin’ Malcom - Played alongside Harris on his debut recording. (Searching for Odell Harris) [2006]

Artists Influenced

• Delta and Hill Country blues musicians - Harris's authentic style and late-career recording have inspired contemporary blues artists seeking to preserve the raw Mississippi sound. (No individual proteges documented; influence noted in blues community commentary.) [2006–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Before You Accuse Me (Searching for Odell Harris)
2. Train I Ride (Searching for Odell Harris)
3. Daylight Romp (Instrumental) (Searching for Odell Harris)
4. .44 Blues (Searching for Odell Harris)
5. On Your Way Fishing (Searching for Odell Harris)
6. All Night Long (Searching for Odell Harris)
7. Early One Morning (Searching for Odell Harris)
8. Hill Funk (Instrumental) (Searching for Odell Harris)
9. Can't Stand To See You Go (Searching for Odell Harris)
10. Someday Baby (Searching for Odell Harris)

External Links

• Spotify