WYXR Stereo Sessions: Sid Selvidge “Portrait”

Sid Selvidge’s debut album, “Portrait,” released in 1969 on Enterprise Records (a subsidiary of Stax), stands as a timeless masterpiece within the realm of country blues and folk. A native of the Mississippi Delta and a figure deeply rooted in the Memphis music scene, Selvidge approached his music with a genial yet uncompromising attitude. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Selvidge did not aspire to the grandeur of coliseum crowds or commercial success. Instead, he found solace in intimate venues and a sound that beautifully straddled the folk-blues line, embracing the influences of 1960s coffeehouse anthems, plaintive Anglo folk balladry, and raw African-American musical traditions.

“Portrait” showcases Selvidge’s lilting falsetto, conveying both humility and authority, and his approach to music was characterized by a genuine custodianship for the rich musical heritage of the Southern United States. The album includes the anti-war tune “The Ballad Of Otis B. Watson,” which, despite initial success, faced adversity with commercial radio due to advertiser pressure. The hauntingly beautiful nature of the album, underscored by tracks like “Hush-A-Bye,” has garnered admiration from fans who consider it a hidden gem. Sid Selvidge’s commitment to his artistry over commercial pursuits, as well as his unique blend of folk and blues, leaves an indelible mark on the musical landscape, making “Portrait” a cherished and haunting piece of musical history.

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