Another 1960's hit by Canned Heat 'Going Up The Country' also owed a massive debt to another song that had been written many years earlier.
Henry Thomas was born in Texas in 1874 and after leaving home began writing and playing songs accompanying himself on guitar and quills, an instrument made from cane reeds, giving a similar distinctive sound to Peruvian Pan pipes. He recorded a total of twenty four sides for the Vocalion label in the two years between 1927 and 1929. After that nothing is known of his life though he is believed to have died in 1930.
One of the songs written and recorded by Thomas was 'Honey Won't You Allow Me One More Chance' which was re-interpreted as 'Honey Just Allow Me One More Chance' by Bob Dylan on his second album, 'The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan'. The Lovin' Spoonful also recorded the Thomas composition 'Fishin' Blues'.
Another Henry Thomas song 'Bulldoze Blues' was recorded by Johnny Miller in 1927 as 'Up The Country'. This was later picked up and rewritten by Al Wilson of Canned Heat and they released the track in 1968 as 'Going Up The Country' reaching number 11 in the US singles chart. It also featured in the movie 'Woodstock'.
Despite the words being totally rewritten the song is clearly based upon the composition of Henry Thomas including the part played by Thomas on quills which was recreated on flute by Jim Horn. Unfortunately Henry Thomas never received any credit for this work from Canned Heat.
Take a listen to both songs below and see what you think.
Canned Heat - Going Up The Country
Henry Thomas - Bulldoze Blues
Incidentally a collection of all of the released tracks by Henry Thomas has been released on Yazoo Records. Titled 'Texas Worried Blues' I think it is an essential recording for any fan of early country blues.
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