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Chris Strachwitz Writings

Most of Chris Strachwitz’s writing can be found in the liner notes to the LPs and CDs he recorded and produced for his record label Arhoolie Records. However, some of his writings can be found in publications.

Travels

In 1960 and 1962 Chris Strachwitz took extensive trips from California to the South where he recorded the first albums for Arhoolie Records. He wrote about them in his International Blues Record Club Bulletin and in Jazz Reports.

International Blues Record Club Bulletin No. 3 Journey to the South Down South 1960 – The beginning of a record label.   An account of Chris’ travels through the United States searching for music in 1960 and the beginning of Arhoolie Records.
IBRC-Vol2-no-1International Blues Record Club Bulletin December 1962 Vol. 2 No. 1 The 1962 Trip An account of Chris’ travels through the United States searching for music.
Jazz-Report_0001Jazz Reports Vol. 2 No. 6 As Blues editor for Jazz Reports he wrote this article about his trip to Houston, TX in 1962.
Jazz Reports Vol. 2 No. 8 As Blues editor for Jazz Reports he wrote this article about his trip to Houston, TX in 1962 and the “Record Men” he met there.
Jazz-Report_0003Jazz Reports Vol. 2 No. 10 As Blues editor for Jazz Reports he wrote this article about his trip to Louisiana in 1962.


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.

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