Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZLOFTON, Cripple Clarence(b 28 March 1887, Kingsport TN; d 9 Jan. '57, Chicago) Blues singer, pianist; also drummer, whistler, tap-dancer, despite probably being partly disabled from birth. A classic rent party entertainer, particularly well-liked for his piano. To Chicago '17; owned a tavern there late '30s. Recorded for Vocalion/ARC group '35, Yazoo c'37, Solo Art/Riverside '39, Pax/Session '43 tracks reissued on Storyville, coupled with Jimmy Yancey tracks from same dates. Other compilations: 1935--6 Recordings on Magpie, with Walter Davis on Yazoo (b 1 March '12, Grenada MS; d probably 22 Oct. '63, St Louis; also pianist/singer). |