My Mississippi Juke Joint Project was an idea long before it was a reality. Given my fascination with Americana, I am often thought of as a documentary/art photographer.  I tend to pick subject matter which is of historical significance and/or documents a way of life that is disappearing. I did not begin my juke joint odyssey to document the history of blues, nor is it my current intention.  I was fascinated by the places, the culture, and the geography, and along the way became fascinated with the people and their stories.

Inspired in part by Birney Imes's book, Juke Joint, I knew I wanted to retrace some of his steps, however I do not live near the Delta and have no connections there. The idea of approaching juke joint owners cold and asking to take photographs was overwhelming. Enter Robert Birdsong, Clarksdale native, local historian, and tourguide.  This project soon grew, as I recruited my wife, writer and painter Dana Lise Shavin to accompany me and craft an essay about the shoot. I am currently seeking exhibition and publication opportunities.  You can view a sampling of the photographs, Dana's newspaper column, and an excerpt of her essay here. To see more photos from the Juke Joint Project, please contact me at: darylthetford@yahoo.com.

See more photos

Read about the Juke Joint Project on the F Blog

Robert Birdsong Pictured shooting pool

For tour information, contact
Robert Birdsong
phone: 662-624-6051
email: birdsong@clarksdale.com