The main genre of the label, blues artists have been part of High Water’s legacy since its inception, with artists Raymond and Lillie Hill, Jessie Mae Hemphill, Ranie Burnette, and R.L. Burnside being the first four artists recorded for the label. Dr. David Evans was insistent that the artists High Water records should be mainstays of their local communities, and that these releases should be focused on styles that can be sold in their local communities as well.

Throughout High Water’s history, the label would release albums and singles for over a dozen blues groups, each with their own distinct sound. However, each were mainstays of their communities, often incorporating musical elements that they had grown up with, while also synthesizing contemporary approaches to the blues. It is also in this vein that High Water has more recently attempted to revitalize the label, with R&B artist Talibah Safiya being chosen as part of a new “artist in residence” program.

Select the pictures below to find more detailed biographical information on each artist.