T-Model Ford Dies At Age 93

T-Model Ford has died at the age of 93. The Mississippi blues legend died of respiratory failure on Tuesday. He was reportedly under hospice care in his home at the time of his death.

As reported by the Washington Post, Ford’s family, including his wife Estella, were at his side when he passed.

Ford started playing the blues at the age of 58, following his fifth divorce. His first guitar was a parting gift from his wife.

Starting out in local juke joints, Ford soon became a legend. He was well-known for conveying his emotions through music.

Longtime friend, Roger Stolle explains that Ford “has a story and could back it up.” Ford does have a story, and it details a life that would make anyone sing the blues.

At the age of 11, Ford was already working the fields, using a mule-powered plow.

As a young man, T-Model Ford was sentenced to serve 10 years in prison for killing another man. Although the killing was in self-defense, Ford served two years.

During his time in prison, Ford was part of the chain gang. The scars from the shackles faded, but remained on his ankles as a grim reminder.

Ford was married six times and fathered 26 children. Stolle explains that Ford’s fifth divorce was devastating. However, his blues eventually led to a successful career:

“He stayed up all night drinking white whiskey… and playing the guitar… He kind of went on from there.”

Ford’s success didn’t come easy. Stolle explains that in the beginning, Ford would often “play late… spray himself with a bunch of mosquito spray and sleep in his van.”

As reported by Rolling Stone, Ford eventually recorded seven albums, and was known world-wide for his Mississippi style blues.

Ford loved performing live, often arriving early and leaving late. His fans appreciated his sincere and genuine personality. He often interacted with the audience during his shows.

T-Model Ford is a legend and an inspiration. He will forever be known as “a master of old school blues.”

[Image via Wikimedia]