Cedric Burnside

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cedric Burnside related to R.L. Burnside?

Yes, Cedric Burnside is directly related to R.L. Burnside. Cedric is the grandson of the legendary blues musician R.L. Burnside, making their relationship one deeply rooted in both family and musical tradition. Cedric grew up surrounded by the blues, learning the craft firsthand from his grandfather. This close familial bond has greatly influenced Cedric's musical style and career, as he often played drums for R.L. during his formative years. Their dynamic as a grandfather-grandson duo on stage brought a unique energy to their performances, further cementing Cedric's place in the blues world. This legacy connection has allowed Cedric to carry forward the Burnside name, blending traditional blues with his own innovative flair, ensuring the Burnside musical heritage continues to resonate with contemporary audiences.

What happened to RL Burnside?

R.L. Burnside, a pivotal figure in the Mississippi Hill Country Blues scene, passed away on September 1, 2005. He died from complications of heart disease at the age of 78. Throughout his life, R.L. Burnside faced numerous challenges, including brushes with the law and health issues in his later years. Despite these hardships, he experienced a significant career resurgence in the 1990s, gaining international acclaim for his raw, electrifying blues sound. His music, often characterized by hypnotic rhythms and gritty vocals, influenced countless musicians and helped revitalize interest in traditional blues. R.L. Burnside's legacy lives on through his recordings, his descendants

Is Cedric Burnside related to RL Burnside?

Cedric Burnside is indeed related to R.L. Burnside; he is R.L. Burnside's grandson. Cedric grew up in northern Mississippi, immersed in the blues tradition established by his grandfather. From a young age, Cedric played drums in his grandfather's band, learning not only the technical skills of musicianship but also the cultural and emotional depth of the blues. This familial connection allowed Cedric to inherit and evolve the Burnside sound, blending raw, traditional blues with more modern influences. Today, Cedric Burnside is acclaimed for carrying the torch of his family's rich musical heritage, bringing the authentic Mississippi Hill Country Blues to contemporary audiences while honoring and extending his grandfather's legacy.

What is RL Burnside's real name?

R.L. Burnside's real name is Robert Lee Burnside. Born on November 23, 1926, near Oxford, Mississippi, he later became widely known simply as R.L. Burnside in the music world. Under this name, he gained fame as one of the most influential figures in blues music, particularly known for his contributions to the Hill Country Blues subgenre. His authentic style, characterized by driving rhythms and powerful guitar work, helped shape modern perceptions of Mississippi blues. The use of his initials, R.L., became synonymous with the raw, electrifying energy he brought to the genre, ensuring his name would be remembered among blues legends.

What is Cedric Burnside known for?

Cedric Burnside is renowned for his exceptional contributions to the contemporary blues scene, particularly as a masterful drummer, guitarist, and vocalist. He is best known for carrying on the Mississippi Hill Country Blues tradition pioneered by his grandfather, R.L. Burnside. Cedric's music blends traditional blues rhythms with modern elements, infusing his performances with both authenticity and innovation. He has earned critical acclaim, receiving multiple Blues Music Awards and a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album. Cedric's energetic live shows, soulful vocals, and percussive guitar style have made him a standout figure in the genre. He is celebrated not only for his musicianship but also for preserving and evolving the legacy of Mississippi blues for new generations.