Chris Strachwitz

The president of Arhoolie Records, folklorist and producer Chris Strachwitz was among the most prominent and influential champions of global roots music. Initially focusing primarily on American traditions including the blues, Cajun, Tejano, zydeco, country, and jazz, he later branched out to explore music from throughout the world, preserving our shared cultural heritage for future generations to explore. Born July 1, 1931, in Gross Reichenau, Germany, Strachwitz relocated to the U.S. in 1947, and began collecting 78 rpm records a short time later. After first becoming obsess...