DeFord Bailey, 1899–1982
December 14, 1899, Died July 2, 1982
Renowned for his mastery of the harmonica in both country and blues genres, DeFord Bailey stood out as a beloved early performer on the Grand Ole Opry, earning the distinction of being the first African American star in country music. His significant contributions led to his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame museum in Nashville, Tennessee, in 2005.
One of the first African-American country music stars, Bailey began playing harmonica at just three years old and was the first person ever to be introduced as playing on the Grand Ole Opry
