Lesson Plan Outline

Blind Willie McTell

Internationally Known Blues Song-Writer and Performer

Prepared by:Cindi Chance__ Title:_ Professor______________________

Representing: Georgia Southern University_____________

Date:June 8, 2011_____________________

Content Area: Song Composition Level 6—Music/Singing Styles

Background Info: Lyrics from Statesboro Blues, written, sung, and recorded by Blind Willie and many others.

“Statesboro Blues” is a blues song in the key of D written by Blind Willie McTell; the title refers to the town of Statesboro, Georgia. Covered by many artists, the version by The Allman Brothers Band is especially notable and was ranked #9 by Rolling Stone in their list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Songs of All Time. In 2005, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution ranked “Statesboro Blues” number 57 on its list of 100 Songs of the South.[

Instructional Objective/Learning Outcome:

The students will broaden their knowledge about how music reflects the time and culture. Music is a social experience and is determined by our culture.

The student will:

Listen to Statesboro Blues as sung by Blind Willie, and the Allman Brothers.
Discuss the differences between the two recordings.
Discuss the differences in time, place, culture of the two recordings.

Assessment Outcome:

Students will find other examples of ‘songs over time’ and reflect on the impact of cultural changes, social changes, etc. on music and listerners.

Materials:

From website listen to ‘Statesboro Blues’ sung by Blind Willie and others.
Access to popular song/s.