In the 1960s and '70s, Bessie Jones, John Davis, and the Georgia Sea Island Singers captivated audiences with their powerful renditions of traditional songs from the African American Gullah Geechee community of St. Simons Island, Georgia. Born and raised on St. Simons, the group’s members traced their roots to enslaved West and Central Africans who once toiled on the island’s cotton plantations. During the civil rights movement, their music became a vital force, preserving and sharing centuries-old Black musical traditions at a pivotal moment in American history.

Now, a previously unheard recording from the vault of Peter Siegel, known for producing releases from Joseph Spence, Doc Watson, and Hazel Dickens & Alice Gerrard, brings this historic performance to light. The Complete Friends of Old Time Music Concert is a time capsule of traditional music from the island and beyond. It features a rich tapestry of stirring work songs that echo the rhythms of labor, emotionally charged spirituals that speak to resilience and faith, jubilant children’s songs that celebrate community, and revelatory renditions of Mississippi blues that bridge cultural and musical divides. Each track is a testament to the deep roots and enduring power of these musical traditions.

The Georgia Sea Island Singers' performance was both a concert and a cultural event documenting the intersection of musical giants and the sharing of a heritage that shaped American music. This recording not only preserves the raw, authentic energy of that show but also captures the historical significance of the moment. The collaboration with Mississippi Fred McDowell and Ed Young adds layers, showcasing the diverse influences that have shaped American traditional music. Alan Lomax’s role as emcee underscores the importance of this gathering. Lomax, a legendary figure in the preservation and documentation of folk music, brings a unique perspective and authenticity to the concert. His presence elevates the recording, highlighting the significance of the Georgia Sea Island Singers in the broader context of American folk and blues music.