Scrapper Blackwell, born Francis Hillman Blackwell, left an indelible mark on the blues scene as a virtuoso guitarist and collaborator with Blues Hall of Famer Leroy Carr. Though widely recognized for his role in the iconic Carr-Blackwell duo during their recording zenith from 1928 to 1935, Blackwell’s musical prowess extended far beyond accompaniment. Born on February 21, 1903 (though birth details remain uncertain, with some evidence pointing to Indianapolis in 1904), Blackwell, of Cherokee and African-American descent, began his artistic journey crafting makeshift guitars as a child.
His entry into the blues arena was catalyzed when he joined forces with Leroy Carr in 1928. The duo’s sessions yielded timeless classics, with hits like “How Long—How Long Blues” making them a household name. Despite their success, Carr’s untimely death in 1935 led Blackwell to retreat from music, only to be rediscovered by local fans in the 1950s. His raw talent and unique guitar style were showcased in solo recordings and collaborations with emerging musicians. Yazoo Records acknowledged his unparalleled guitar skills, emphasizing his ability to blend heavy bass sections and intricate treble-string runs. In the 1950s, Indianapolis jazz scholar Duncan Schiedt reintroduced Blackwell to a new generation of fans who admired his old recordings. Despite facing periods of unemployment, Blackwell continued to play in local taverns and mentor aspiring musicians.
His unexpected encounters with old admirers led to concert performances and recordings, contributing to the folk-blues revival of the late 1950s and early 1960s. Nicknamed “Scrapper” for his youthful inclination for tussles, Blackwell’s life was marked by both musical triumphs and personal challenges. His journey came to an unfortunate end on October 7, 1962, when he was discovered in an Indianapolis alley, having succumbed to two .22 caliber bullets. Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding his death, Scrapper Blackwell’s legacy endures through his timeless contributions to the blues genre.