Learn to Play "Louis Collins" by Mississippi John Hurt: Guitar Lesson + Song History

Mississippi John Hurt was a legendary blues and folk guitarist known for his gentle, fingerpicking style and soothing voice. His song "Louis Collins," a traditional murder ballad, stands out as one of his most haunting and beautiful pieces. If you want to dive into the deep roots of American folk music and learn how to play a song with real history, this guitar lesson will show you how.

Who Was Mississippi John Hurt?

Born in 1893 in Teoc, Mississippi, John Hurt grew up in a time when music was passed down orally. His unique style blended Delta blues, folk, and gospel influences. Despite recording in the 1920s, he didn't gain widespread recognition until the folk revival of the 1960s, when rediscovered recordings led to a resurgence in his popularity.

Mississippi John Hurt's music is distinct from other blues musicians of his time. Where many of his contemporaries focused on hard-hitting, more aggressive sounds, Hurt's playing is soft, melodic, and intimate. His fingerstyle technique, which involves plucking individual strings with the thumb and fingers, gives his songs a rolling, steady rhythm that makes them feel timeless.

Hurt's songs are stories—stories about love, loss, and life in rural America. He wasn’t just a musician; he was a storyteller, and "Louis Collins" is one of his most powerful tales.

The Story Behind "Louis Collins"

"Louis Collins" is a murder ballad, a traditional genre of folk music that tells the tale of a crime and its aftermath. Hurt’s version, however, is different in tone. Rather than focusing on violence or vengeance, his soft voice and gentle fingerpicking give the song a mournful, sorrowful feel.

The lyrics tell the story of Louis Collins, a man who was tragically murdered. Hurt sings about how Louis’ mother wept over his death and about the impact of the loss. The song suggests that his killer was a ruthless man, but it doesn’t dwell on the crime itself. Instead, it focuses on the sadness and heartbreak of those left behind, painting a picture of a world where life is fragile and fleeting.

Though the song may have roots in older folk traditions, Mississippi John Hurt's rendition has a timeless quality. It’s a song that resonates with listeners today, not just for its story but for the emotion and beauty in Hurt’s performance.

Guitar Lesson: How to Play "Louis Collins"

Now, let’s break down the guitar part to "Louis Collins." Mississippi John Hurt’s fingerpicking style is essential to capturing the feel of the song. Here’s what you need to know to play it:

1. Tuning and Key

The song is in standard tuning and is played in the key of C major. Hurt’s fingerpicking pattern is steady and follows a bass line played with the thumb, while the fingers pick out the melody on the higher strings.

2. Basic Chords

You’ll need to know a few basic chords for this song:

• C Major

• G7

• F Major

These chords are familiar to most guitar players, but the real magic happens in the fingerpicking.

3. The Fingerpicking Pattern

Hurt’s fingerpicking technique is often called a "thumb lead" style. The thumb plays a steady alternating bass pattern, while the fingers pick out melody notes on the higher strings. To get started, practice alternating your thumb between the 5th and 4th strings while holding a C chord. Once you feel comfortable with the thumb, begin to add melody notes with your index and middle fingers on the 2nd and 3rd strings.

For example, while holding a C chord, your thumb will alternate between the 5th and 4th strings, and your fingers will pick the 1st and 2nd strings to play melody notes.

4. Pay Attention to the Rhythm

Mississippi John Hurt's playing is all about the groove. His relaxed, syncopated rhythm gives the song its distinctive feel. Don’t rush through the notes; take your time, and let each one ring out clearly. Focus on keeping a steady thumb rhythm while your fingers add in the melody.

5. Play Along

Once you've got the basic pattern down, try playing along with Mississippi John Hurt’s recording. Listening to his phrasing and dynamics will help you capture the spirit of the song. Don’t be afraid to make the song your own—Mississippi John Hurt's style was all about individuality and expression.

Why Learning "Louis Collins" is Important

Learning "Louis Collins" is more than just mastering a song—it's a lesson in the history of American music. Mississippi John Hurt’s music bridges the gap between the Delta blues, folk traditions, and even early country music. By learning this song, you're not just learning to play a classic tune; you're connecting with a musical tradition that’s over a century old.

In addition to the historical significance, playing in the fingerpicking style of Mississippi John Hurt will greatly improve your guitar skills. His music teaches you to play with both rhythm and melody at the same time, a skill that is invaluable for any guitarist.

Wrapping Up

Mississippi John Hurt’s "Louis Collins" is a haunting, beautiful song that has stood the test of time. As you learn to play this classic, take a moment to reflect on the story it tells and the history it represents. By mastering the fingerpicking technique, you’ll not only be paying homage to one of the greatest blues musicians of all time, but you’ll also be improving your own guitar skills in a meaningful way.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced guitarist, this lesson is a great way to explore the rich history of American folk and blues music while adding a beautiful song to your repertoire. So, grab your guitar, start practicing, and let the timeless sound of Mississippi John Hurt inspire you!

Looking to improve your rhythm guitar skills even further? Check out my Strum Masters course, where I’ll guide you through essential techniques to master timing, chord changes, and strumming patterns. Join now and take your playing to the next level!