Information about Abner Jay

Subject: Information about Abner Jay
From: rube1
Date: 17 Sep 00 - 08:34 PM

Abner Jay was(is) a Florida folk legend. A songster, storyteller and a one man band, he played the banjo and harmonica while beating a drum with his knees. He sang traditional renditions of Stephen Foster songs, gospel songs and created some unforgettable originals. Anyone who ever saw him perform at the Florida Folk Festival in the 1970's or heard any of his records will remember this unique individual. I have three of his independently released albums (Brandie Records- a defunct Atlanta address) and I have often wondered whatever happened to him, if he is still alive, and if any more of his recordings are floating around in the hands of other collectors. Classic originals include: "The True Story of Dixie," in which he tells the fabulous and hilarious true story of how the song "Dixie" was originally written by a yankee, Daniel Emmett, and first performed in a New Orleans music hall by a troupe of down and out minstrels. The world needs to hear this story. Another great one is "The Backbone of America is a Mule and Cotton." I've barely begun this personal research project but so far, I've found no one who remembers him. I can't be the only one. Any information on Abner Jay or his family or heirs will be greatly appreciated. This is a man who should not be forgotten. I want to write about him. Thank you. Kevin Wilson

PS:I just became a Mudcat member and look forward to exploring this vast and incredible site, and also meeting and making new friends.

Subject: RE: Information about Abner Jay
From: bflat
Date: 17 Sep 00 - 08:47 PM

Kevin,

Welcome, please keep us informed about Mr. Jay. Sounds like an amazing musician.

bflat

Subject: RE: Information about Abner Jay
From: simon-pierre
Date: 17 Sep 00 - 09:23 PM

You may be aware that he recorded a song called "butterfly tail" on the record "Blues Routes" released by Folkways a few years back (1996?). The record was live and produced in the 90's. I' don't have the CD right now, but I'm sure some folks here have it. The liner notes of the album may interest you.

SP

Subject: RE: Information about Abner Jay
From: GUEST,grgptrsn
Date: 18 Sep 00 - 01:40 AM

rube,

although i can't help you w/ any additional information, it was a great comfort to for me to find out that someone else is aware of Abner Jay. the only record i have is "the backbone of america..." containing by far the most beautiful recordings of stephen foster songs i've ever heard. i'm encouraged to know that there are at least a few more recordings yet to discover. thank you.

Greg

Subject: RE: Information about Abner Jay
From: rube1
Date: 18 Sep 00 - 06:43 AM

To all who have responded; thanks. I'll be back.

Subject: RE: Information about Abner Jay
From:
Date: 02 Apr 04 - 05:51 PM

hey

swedish label subliminal sounds released a compilation called one man band by abner jay a few months ago. i found out about him through it and i'm listening to the record right now. amazing.

http://www.subliminalsounds.se/DOK/abnerjay.html

best, gui.

Subject: RE: Information about Abner Jay
From: GUEST,a student
Date: 10 Feb 11 - 04:56 PM

I would love to learn alot more about him if you have any other information please contact me about him if it doesnt trouble you . :)

Subject: RE: Information about Abner Jay
From: GUEST
Date: 10 Feb 11 - 04:57 PM

[e-mail] is my email please contact me :)