William Christopher Handy

Date of Birth: November 16, 1873

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: March 28, 1958

Biography

William Christopher Handy, widely known as W.C. Handy, was an American composer and musician, often dubbed the “Father of the Blues.” Born into a poor family in Florence, Alabama, Handy showed an early interest in music, much to the disapproval of his religious parents. Despite their concerns, Handy pursued his passion, learning to play various instruments, including the cornet and piano. He worked various jobs, including as a teacher and bandleader, before his big break came with the composition of “Memphis Blues” in 1912. This piece is considered one of the first blues songs ever published, and it paved the way for Handy to become a significant figure in American music. Over his career, Handy published numerous blues compositions, including the famous “St. Louis Blues” and “Beale Street Blues.” Handy’s work not only popularized the blues but also brought African American music into the mainstream. He passed away in 1958, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence musicians to this day.

5 Interesting Facts about William Christopher Handy

1. W.C. Handy was initially discouraged from playing secular music by his religious parents.

2. He published his autobiography, “Father of the Blues,” in 1941.

3. Handy was nearly blind in his later years due to a skull fracture and a subsequent fall.

4. He was honored with a U.S. postage stamp in 1969.

5. Handy founded the Handy Brothers Music Company to publish his music and promote other African American artists.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William Christopher Handy

1. “Life is something like a trumpet. If you don’t put anything in, you won’t get anything out.”

2. “Setting my mind on a musical instrument was like falling in love. All the world seemed bright and changed.”

3. “The blues were born on the plantations, levees, and streets of the South.”

4. “In the South, black folk sang all their sorrows away.”

5. “The name of my disease is fame.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, W.C. Handy’s net worth was estimated to be around $300,000, a significant sum for his time, especially for an African American musician.

Children

W.C. Handy had six children: Lucille, Katherine, Wyer, Elizabeth, William Jr., and Virginia. His children occasionally assisted in his music business, helping to solidify his legacy.