Turpentine Blues. Words by W.C. "Dub" Tomlinson, performed by Candler Tomlinson, 2003. This song was written by Dub Tomlinson especially for the Traditions of Turpentining project. Tomlinson (born 1931) typifies the old-time Wiregrass lifestyle of farmer, rancher, and turpentiner during the period of the open range in South Georgia. A life-long resident of Echols County--with the exception of a stint in military service-- Tomlinson has worked timber all his life, first in turpentine, then a heavy equipment operator and harvesting supervisor. Many of his personal experience narratives are recounted in his self-published memoir A Lad in the Piney Woods (2002). Throughout his career, he performed with his band The Suwanee Troubadours, a traditional country group for which he was lead vocalist, and lead and rhythm guitar player. He also wrote numerous songs for the group, but never anything about his life experience with turpentine.

Includes audio file and lyrics.

Tape Log

Equipment Used:

Informant Name: W.C. "Dub" Tomlinson

Fieldworker: Echols County

Engineer: Laurie Kay Sommers

Location:

Content Summary: home recording,

Notes:

Technical Summary: good

Genre: music, country blues, guitar

Places: Echols county

People:

Groups: European American

Keywords: