Album Notes

Hamilton Kirkland a.k.a. "Harmonica Ham," was born in Greensboro, Georgia, the son of a Baptist preacher.

After taking up harmonica in his early 20s, Ham went on to win several awards for his country music playing, including twice winning the National Harmonica Championship. He honed his "blues-infused country" style while performing in various "dance-hall" and country show bands, sharing the stage with such notables as Hank Thompson, Rhonda Vincent and Chelee Wright.

The influences of bluesmen such as Little Walter Jacobs, James Cotton, Paul Butterfield and Muddy Waters are apparent in the earthy tones Ham squeezes from the harp.

In this first recording, backed by reknowned performers Rhonda Vincent and Lew Houston, Kirkland demonstrates mastery of the harp on bluegrass and traditional country favorites. His rich baritone voice shines on country blues covers and his original tune: E.S.P.