Smithsonian Folkways, the museum and record label that preserves significant works, is acquiring El Cerrito-based
Arhoolie Records and its vast archive of roots, blues and rural music. Arhoolie founder Chris Strachwitz was
instrumental in finding and recording musicians from the rural south like Big Mama Thornton, Mississippi Freddy
McDowell, and Flaco Jimenez. In this hour we’ll learn about the role Arhoolie played in developing America’s
trademark sounds and what’s next for the storied label.
Arhoolie Records Sold to Smithsonian Folkways, Will Keep Releases in Print (KQED Arts)