(Artist Report)

Written by: Ginny Gaines

Leo Welch, born on March 22, 1932, in Sabougla, Mississippi, was a true embodiment of the American dream, albeit a particularly unconventional one. Raised in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Welch spent most of his life working as a logger and cotton picker, his days filled with the difficult tasks of rural life. Yet, amidst the toil, a deep-rooted passion for music simmered. Welch's musical path began early, with his cousin teaching him to play guitar on a homemade instrument constructed from hay baling wire. As a teenager, he joined the gospel choir at his local church, his voice blending harmoniously with the spiritual hymns. However, his musical talent remained largely confined to his family and friends. For decades, Welch continued to play, his music serving as a source of comfort and joy in his otherwise demanding life.

In 2013, a chance encounter would dramatically alter the course of Welch's life. While playing at birthday party for his manager, he was secretly recorded performing. The recording was eventually shared with a music producer, who was immediately captivated by Welch's raw talent and unique blend of gospel and blues. Recognizing the potential in this late-blooming musician, the producer encouraged Welch to record an album. This was a life changing and amazing opportunity for Leo.

In 2014, Leo released his debut album titled Sabougla Voices. This album has 10 songs on it that include "Praise His Name," "You Can't Hurry God," "Mother Loves Her Children," "Somebody Touched Me," "His Name," and "The Lord Will Make a Way." The album's release brought Welch international acclaim. Critics praised his vocals, his masterful guitar playing, and the authenticity of his music. His songs, with their tales of love, loss, and the struggles of everyday life, resonated with audiences around the world. Then, in 2014 Leo released his next album titled I Don't Prefer No Blues. This album has 10 tracks on it that include "Poor Boy," "Girl in the Holler," "I Woke Up," "Pray On," and "Sweet Black Angel." This album was also very well received.

Leo released his first LIVE album in 2017. This album has 24 songs on it from albums previously released. Quite the amazing fete for a late blooming artist! Songs like "Still A Fool," "Got My Mojo Working," "Woke Up This Morning," "Sweet Little Angel," "Sweet Home Chicago," and "If You Don't Like My Peaches." WOW!!!! So amazing!!! In 2019 his last album was released after his death... This album has 10 tracks on it that include "I know I Have Been Changed," "Don't Let The Devil Ride," "Right On Time," "Right On Time," "I Want To Be At The Meeting," and "Let It Shine."

Leo Welch's music was a testament to the enduring power of the blues. His songs were rooted in the traditions of the Mississippi Delta, yet they felt fresh and contemporary. He was a master of the slide guitar, his playing filled with emotion and nuance. His voice, weathered by a lifetime of hard work, was both soulful and gritty.

Welch's late-blooming career serves as a reminder that it's never too late to pursue your dreams. His story is a testament to the enduring power of music and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. Though he passed away in 2017, his legacy lives on through his music, a timeless reminder of the beauty and resilience of the human spirit. Fight, Fight, Fight for your dreams! Here is a man that was 81 years old and did it! So can YOU!!

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