This Week's Featured Marker:

Son Thomas

There are five Blues Trail markers in Leland, Mississippi, all within a few blocks of each other. The first to be erected was the “Corner of 10 & 61″ marker. While today Highway 61 is widely known as the “blues highway,” early on Highway 10 was of equal importance to itinerant musicians. The intersection of highways 10 and 61 was a profitable spot, particularly on Saturdays when people from the country came to town.

Near this intersection are Leland’s other markers: Tyrone Davis, Johnny Winter, Ruby’s Nite Spot, and James “Son” Thomas. Although Thomas was born in Yazoo County, he moved to Leland in 1961 and became one of the most recognized local musical figures in Mississippi during the 1970s and ’80s. He was also a sought-after folk artist, often creating images of skulls or coffins. His son Raymond “Pat” Thomas carries on some of his father’s musical and artistic talent and is often found in the HIghway 61 Blues Museum near the marker.

Beef steak when I’m hungry,And whiskey when I’m dry.Good-lookin’ woman whilst I’m livin’,And heaven when I die.“Beef Steak Blues” – James “Son” Thomas

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