Red Paden, the self-proclaimed “king of the juke joint runners” and owner of Red’s, a historic music spot in downtown Clarksdale, Mississippi, passed away on December 30, at the age of 67. His son, Orlando, confirmed that the cause of death was complications from heart surgery.
Red’s was one of the last places in the United States to offer authentic Delta blues in its natural setting. The venue, a low-ceilinged space the size of a large garage, was decorated with old music posters and lit with neon signs and string bulbs. The atmosphere was informal and intimate, with no stage, just a well-worn carpet for performers and a refrigerator holding beer for guests. Red’s was the quintessential juke joint and a living history book, attracting musicians and celebrities alike, including Robert (Wolfman) Belfour, Morgan Freeman, and Anthony Bourdain.
Juke joints like Red’s were once common across the Deep South and served as the catalyst for the growth of blues music. The decline of juke joints began in the 1990s with the rise of casinos in Mississippi, which offered live music free of charge. Despite this, Red’s remained an institution celebrated for its authenticity, thanks to Red Paden’s unwavering passion.
In 2018, Paden founded Red’s Old-Timer’s Blues Festival, aimed at supporting older blues musicians and inspiring younger generations. The festival quickly became a significant event, attracting headliners like 91-year-old harmonica player, Cadillac John Nolden.
Red Paden’s legacy will continue through the annual blues festival, with plans to expand the event and introduce new elements, including a barbecue competition.
The passing of Red Paden marks the end of an era for the Delta blues community, but his impact on preserving the authentic blues experience is one that will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
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