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Lightnin' Hopkins

Centerville, TX

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blues Popularity: 43 Established Division

GOAT Standings

3
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0.0682
Wilson Score ? Measures confidence in approval rating. Accounts for sample size — an artist with 8/10 likes ranks higher than 1/1. Ranges 0–1; higher is better.
44
Times Served
Region: Central Texas / Hill Country Conference: Texas Regional Rank: #116

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Did You Know

  • Lightnin' Hopkins was taught blues by his older cousin, legendary Texas bluesman, Alger "Texas" Alexander.
  • He was born in Centerville, Texas, a small town deeply rooted in the state's blues heritage.
  • His career took off after meeting pianist Wilson Smith in Houston, leading to his first recordings in 1946.
  • Hopkins could reputedly compose a song on the spot, based on events unfolding around him.
  • He deeply influenced the Texas blues sound, emphasizing improvisation and raw emotional delivery.
  • Lightnin' Hopkins collaborated with Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee, bridging Texas and Piedmont blues styles.
  • "Mojo Hand," a song about hoodoo practices, became one of his most recognizable and covered tunes.
  • His music appeared in documentaries like "The Blues Accordin' to Lightnin' Hopkins", cementing his cultural impact.
  • Though never aiming for mainstream awards, his impact earned him belated recognition near the end of his life.
  • Lightnin' Hopkins' deeply personal blues continues to inspire guitarists worldwide, keeping his legacy alive.

Locations in Lyrics

3 location references across 4 songs

Songs & Places

Tim Moore's Farm
Navasota, TX
Grosebeck Blues
Groesbeck, TX
Abilene
Abilene, TX
"Stop over in Abilene"
Goin' to Galveston
Galveston, TX

Rivers & Roads in Song Nearby

Connected Places

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