Author David C. Morton will discuss DeFord Bailey: A Black Star in Early Country Music, his critically acclaimed biography of DeFord Bailey, country music’s first Black star. Billed as “The Harmonica Wizard,” Bailey—a future Country Music Hall of Famer—performed on the Grand Ole Opry from 1926 to 1941 and ranked among the program’s most popular entertainers. Morton’s biography of Bailey, which was co-written with the late Charles K. Wolfe and originally published in 1991, was recently reissued by the Museum’s Country Music Foundation Press in a new edition that includes additional photos and a new foreword by musician Dom Flemons. During the program, Morton will discuss his close friendship with Bailey and recount stories about the harmonica player’s life and career. The Museum’s Patrick Huber will moderate. After the program, Morton will be available to sign copies of the book. Taylor Swift Education Center. Included with Museum admission. Free to Museum members.
