The Blues Archive at Ole Miss
The Blues Archive at the University of Mississippi acquires and conserves blues and blues-related materials in a variety of formats for scholars of the blues, African American studies, and southern culture. With over 50,000 sound recordings, in most audio formats; over 15,000 photographs; more than 350 videotapes; over 3,000 books, periodicals and newsletters; and numerous manuscripts and ephemera, the Blues Archive houses one of the largest collections of blues recordings, publications, and memorabilia in the world. Important collections include B. B. King’s personal record collection, the Jim O’Neal and Amy van Singel / Living Blues Collection, the Trumpet Records Collection, the John Richbourg Collection, and the Percy Mayfield collection.
Established in 1984, the Blues Archive serves not only students and faculty within the University of Mississippi, but researchers worldwide. This non-circulating collection is located within the Department of Archives and Special Collections on the third floor of the John Davis Williams Library. Audio and video recordings may be accessed in the Special Collections media room. The Archive is open Monday – Friday from 8:00 AM-5:00 PM, except during selected University holidays.
Still Got the Blues: A Silver Anniversary Exhibition
Come celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Blues Archive by viewing Still Got the Blues: A Silver Anniversary Exhibition in Archives and Special Collections’ Faulkner Room, located on the third floor of the J. D. Williams Library.
From original record contracts for Elmore James and Sonny Boy Williamson, rare sound recordings by Robert Johnson and Charlie Patton, artwork by Lightnin’ Hopkins and James “Son” Thomas and records from B.B. King’s personal record collection, this exhibit is sure to have something that appeals to everyone.
Please contact the department if you are planning research, wishing to organize a tour, or have any questions not answered on this site.
For additional information contact:
Greg Johnson, Blues Curator and Assistant Professor
Archives and Special Collections of the J. D. Williams Library
Telephone: (662) 915-7753
