Country Music Roots and History - DeFord Bailey

DeFord Bailey was an African American harmonica player. Born just 40 miles from Nashville, Tennessee, he became a member of the Grand Ole Opry, which was still the National Barn Dance, in 1925. He became a regular performer and eventually went on tour. Touring was difficult, as he was not allowed interaction with white fans. His accomodations had to be in the "colored" section of town. Still, black and white would come to hear him perform, and he drew large crowds everywhere he went. For a decade and a half, he was a consistent part of the Grand Ole Opry. He left the Opry in 1941. Still, his contributions will never be forgotten as he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2005.