Remembering Chris Strachwitz
Chris Strachwitz, founder of Arhoolie Records, has died at age 91. Below is Nick Spitzer’s statement on his passing:
“Chris had been ailing for some time. He was serenaded a couple days ago by Los Cenzontles and Linda Ronstadt. Here in New Orleans at the Jazz & Heritage Festival a discussion panel was held in his honor yesterday. A photography exhibition of his images is on display in the grandstand.
His legacy and impact in seeking and presenting great musicians in in blues, Cajun and zydeco, Mexican, traditional jazz and old time country is unparalleled.
New Orleans Jazzfest co-founder Quint Davis described Chris as his primary inspiration for the content of the event.
Arhoolie Records artists were formative in my college years onward in radio and public folklore efforts to the present.
Chris is already missed, but his legacy endures.”
You can hear our show devoted to the music of Arhoolie Records featuring an interview with Chris Strachwitz here.
To read more about his life, click here.
