James "Son" Thomas

Blues singer and guitarist, born 14 October 1926 in Eden, Mississippi, died 26 June 1993 in Greenville, Mississippi Apart from being a blues musician, Thomas was a gravedigger and folk artist known for his sculptures featuring actual human teeth. Thomas was raised by his grandparents, who gave him his nickname "Son" as a term of endearment. In 1967 he was discovered by researcher William Ferris, who documented his life in the book "Blues From The Delta" and in five films. With new found fame, "Son" Thomas played several blues festivals billed as "Delta's last living originals" and recorded a handful of albums. James "Son" Thomas died at age 66 following a heart attack.