The Group that broke the color line bringing a mixed race group into Colleges around America…white playing with blacks in the same band which sounds ridiculous now but was a cultural break through then…

I hope some day the Hall of Fame grows up..and gets hip to others as well..

Back in 2007 there was a petition that Paul’s son Gabriel was a part of… Quoting a brief passage from the petition it went on to say,

“The late Paul Butterfield was world-wide renowned as the legendary blues harmonica player that was pinnacle in the blues revival of the sixties. And one of the first integrated bands, helping to bring a predominantly considered black style of music into white homes, increasing the popularity of this style of music; likewise, merging blues and even folk music into a blues rock.

Paul Butterfield and his band (The Paul Butterfield Blues Band) backed Bob Dylan in the controversial performance at the Newport Festival in 1965 when Bob Dylan plugged in and folk purists hit the ceiling. Paul Butterfield had an incredible impact on music history making and made it possible for many of our famed present day performers to be where they are today. He brought further acclaim to Muddy Waters and Howlin Wolf, as well as, many of the recognized musicians that are common household names emerged from Paul Butterfield’s bands. Beyond the racial element Paul forged the ways for others to follow, bridging the gap between age, race and cultures and created forums for performers that previously did not exist. He enhanced and developed young performers careers and obtained a pay for these performers that they could not acquire elsewhere. He touched the souls of many and to this day his unique style and technique influences musicians. His contributions were many and his legacy is one that should be carried on forever.”

You can read the complete petition by clicking here.

Not really sure if this initiative is currently being re-examined, but if not, it definitely should be… I will ask around…

Thank you, Rockin’ Roger