Charley Patton (1887/1891? – 1934: only known photograph; 1929). He is considered by many to be the "Father of the Delta Blues", and created an enduring body of American music which inspired nearly every Delta blues artist who followed him. Considered among the most important roots musicians that America produced in the 20th century, Patton's gritty bellowing was a major influence on the singing style of his young friend Chester A. Burnett, who went on to gain fame in Chicago as Howlin' Wolf...
