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Arhoolie 50th Anniversary Three Day Party to be covered by a Photo Book & 4 CD set!

If you like what you’ve heard on the American Routes special program devoted to Arhoolie Records, recorded live at our benefit concerts earlier this year, you will be happy to learn that almost all of the music from that memorable weekend will soon be available in a large photo book with 4 CDs. The set will be produced and distributed by Arhoolie Records, which is licensing the material from the Arhoolie Foundation, for whom the concerts were a benefit. The book will contain primarily photos taken at the event by official photographer Mike Melnyk, 4 CDs of music recorded live that weekend, and printed commentary by Chris Strachwitz and various participating artists. Stay tuned as this develops!


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.