Washboard Sam

Robert Brown, known as Washboard Sam, was one of the most popular and prolific recording artists of the late 1930s and early 1940s Chicago blues scene. He was a half-brother of Big Bill Broonzy, who accompanied him on many recordings. His washboard playing provided a rhythmic foundation for the Bluebird sound, and his good-humored vocals and catchy songs made him one of the best-selling blues artists of the pre-war era, recording over 150 sides for Bluebird/RCA. His recordings 'Mama Don't Allow It' and 'I'm Gonna Move to the Outskirts of Town' were popular hits.