In 1952, Mike Seeger recorded a blues guitarist from Norbeck, Montgomery County, Maryland named Joe Lee. Mike included a tune he learned from him on his album “Early Southern Guitar Sounds.” He called it “Joe Lee’s Tune.” I have been researching the former African American community in Norbeck called Mount Pleasant for several years now. On August 6, 2025, I had the pleasure of meeting Joe Lee’s family and played Mike’s field recording of their grandfather. Last week, I visited Joe Lee’s grave in a cemetery in Aspen Hill and played this recording over it, in his honor.
Lovely, Julianne.
I’ve gone to Augusta Heritage the past two years and Ginny Hawker is now someone I can call a friend. I have known who she is for many years, but met her only a year ago.
She of course has great stories about Mike and Hazel and Alice and especially her own recently departed Tracy.
I’ve been reminded a lot lately of how much great music (of all types, actually) I missed over the years while I was obsessively involved with classic country and my day job. Now, in retirement, I’m trying to “let a thousand flowers bloom” and to pick up threads left dangling many years ago.
Hi Julianne!
We are a blues tribute duo in Silver Spring, MD. Where can we find more information on Mr. Lee? We would also like to visit his grave.
Thank You,
Lucie & Luna Blues