MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — A research grant as well as a sizeable collection of memorabilia from the family of the late Uncle Dave Macon will provide research opportunities at the Center for Popular Music at Middle Tennessee State University to learn more about a man regarded as the first superstar of the Grand Ole Opry.
“Our fellowship has provided funding to support historical research into the life, legacy and music of Uncle Dave Macon,” s .
A founding member of the Grand Ole Opry and the program’s first Black star, DeFord Bailey (1899-1982) was among the Opry’s most popular early performers. Known as the “Harmonica Wizard” for his virtuosity on the instrument, he was also a singer, guitarist, banjoist and composer. For decades following his departure from the Opry, Bailey’s story was shrouded in mystery. This meticulously researched biography, long out of print, tells the story of a pioneering Black star in early country music in rich and fascinating detail. The book’s original publication in 1991 helped pave the way for Bailey’s election to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2005.
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