Origins & Early Life

Big Bill Broonzy (born Lee Conley Bradley; June 26, 1893 or 1903 – August 14, 1958), later known as William Lee Broonzy, was an American blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist. His career began in the 1920s, when he played country music to mostly African-American audiences. In the 1930s and 1940s, he navigated a change in style to a more urban blues sound popular with working-class black audiences. In the 1950s, a return to his traditional folk-blues roots made him one of the leading figures of the emerging American folk music revival and an international star.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

His long and varied career marks him as one of the key figures in the development of blues music in the 20th century. Broonzy copyrighted more than 300 songs, including adaptations of traditional folk songs and original blues songs. As a blues composer, he was unique in writing songs that reflected his rural-to-urban experiences. Reportedly born Lee Conley Bradley, he was one of 17 children born to Frank Broonzy (Bradley) and Mittie Belcher. The year and place of his birth are disputed.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Broonzy claimed to have been born in Scott, Mississippi but a body of emerging research compiled by...

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