When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Description
Some records are collected.
Others are pursued.
This is one of the latter.
Offered here is an original Vocalion 1476 pairing two classic performances from the incomparable Memphis Minnie (Minnie McCoy):
- “Bumble Bee”
- “I’m Talkin’ About You”
Few artists tower over the landscape of pre-war country blues quite like Memphis Minnie. A groundbreaking guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist, she matched technical brilliance with fearless originality, helping define the sound of American blues long before electric Chicago blues emerged. “Bumble Bee” remains one of her signature recordings and one of the most recognizable performances of her remarkable career.
This is an authentic early Vocalion pressing—not a later reissue—and a record that belongs in any serious collection of pre-war blues or Race Records.
Condition
Visually, this record presents beautifully.
- Strong original gloss
- Light surface sleeve marks and scattered hairlines consistent with careful handling
- No cracks, chips, or major defects observed
- Labels remain clean and attractive with normal spindle wear
Visual Grade:
(Looks great. Please examine all photos carefully and judge condition for yourself.)
Sound: listen to the sample provided. Seems a little muted, but maybe that’s a result of the stylus and amplification system. Seems to be quite a bit of background noise.
Why Collectors Want This Record
Memphis Minnie’s original 78s have become increasingly difficult to locate, particularly desirable Vocalion issues like this one. They represent a pivotal chapter in American music history, bridging rural country blues and the urban styles that would shape generations of musicians.
Whether you’re building a premier blues collection, investing in scarce pre-war recordings, or simply searching for one of the defining voices of early American music, this is a record that commands attention.
It is nearly a century old, yet the music still hums with vitality—the guitar buzzing like the song’s namesake, the voice confident, playful, and utterly timeless.
The bee may have stopped flying in 1930, but it still has a sting.
Shipping
The record will be professionally packed between oversized cardboard pads with additional protection to ensure it arrives safely. I have extensive experience shipping fragile 78 RPM records, and it will be packed with collectors in mind.
Good luck, and thanks for looking!
