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Arhoolie Records 60 Year Anniversary
and
Arhoolie Foundation 25 year ANNIVERSARY

Enjoy this specially edited archive version of the originally broadcast celebration. 

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Our original Anniversary Celebration Poster

Featuring performances by: Taj Mahal, Ry Cooder, Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, Del McCoury Band, Members of Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Ruthie Foster, Charlie Musselwhite, La Marisoul & Max Baca, BeauSoleil Trio, The Savoy Family Band, The Campbell Brothers, Csókolom, Cedric Watson, and La Familia Morales. With a special appearance by Los Tigres del Norte.  

Hosted by Nick Spitzer of public radio’s American Routes.

And presenting 2020 Arhoolie Awards to:

R&B singer Sugar Pie DeSanto
Cajun fiddler Courtney Granger
New Orleans educational nonprofit The Roots of Music
And a special Chris Strachwitz Legacy Award to:
Tejano accordion legend Flaco Jimenez

You can help support this and other Arhoolie Foundation programs by making a tax deductible donation.

Click here to make a donation OR Text “ARHOOLIE” to 44-321

Find Arhoolie Records music at the Smithsonian’s

Arhoolie Records Bandcamp page here


Statement on the passing of Chris Strachwitz

Arhoolie Records Founder
July 1, 1931 – May 5, 2023

We celebrate the life of our founder, friend, and great record man Chris Strachwitz. He died peacefully at home in Marin County, CA, surrounded in his last days by dear friends and family. Over his 91 years, Chris captured the music that represents the best “down home music” the world has to offer.

He was at the forefront of nearly all the roots revivals over the last 60 years including blues, zydeco, Cajun, Norteño and Tejano music. His drive to document traditional music helped introduce the nation to our diverse musical heritage. He had the foresight to save music that might have otherwise been lost to obscurity and played a role in strengthening cultural traditions through his records, films, and most recently the Arhoolie Foundation. He cared for those around him, fought for royalties and recognition for Arhoolie artists, and provided counsel to countless musicians, writers, film makers, and academics.

Plans for a public celebration of his life will be announced in the coming weeks. Today we’re thinking of all that Chris brought to our lives and the lives of the musicians and fans with whom he shared his passion.