Music Makers is an ongoing series that pays tribute to the faithful disciples of Southern musical traditions.

Music, the blues in particular, has always been an interest in my personal and professional life. I’m particularly captivated by the souls who have a commitment to Southern musical practices as a means of self-expression, historical preservation and in the case of many of the Music Makers artists, as an honest means of survival.

In 2004, I photographed “James.” During the photoshoot, this quiet elderly African American man broke out in a simple blues rendition of the song Stardust... High up in the sky the little stars climb, always reminding me that we're apart…, a favorite tune of his late wife. He was not a musician by trade, but his soulful interpretation of the melody overcame the shakiness of his pitch. James’ delivery was innate. The emotional connection created while taking this portrait stirred my desire to continue with a series.

In early 2006, I discovered the Music Maker Relief Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting the true pioneers and forgotten heroes of Southern music. Struggling, and often penniless, these artists are given the opportunity and funding to preserve their musical legacy. I have been photographing these artists for four years, starting with those living in my native North Carolina.

These artists are the behind-the-scenes originals who have lived their lyrics –the chaos, the loneliness, the poverty, and most of all, the faith. Individually, the portraits capture each artist’s underlying personality and passion. As a collective, the series hums the narrative of a generation whose music helped define the grassroots South.

As many of these artists push through their eighties, they continue to perform tirelessly at shows and on tour. When asked why, Captain Luke sums it up perfectly - “Because I can.”

Please visit www.JimmyWilliamsPhotography.com/musicmakers for a short audio-video of the series narrated by Jimmy Williams.