For this morning’s CarTune we’re going back to our roots with the pride of Houston, Texas, Lightnin’ Hopkins, and his rousing “Black Cadillac.” 

Hopkins (1912-1982) was greatly influenced by Blind Lemon Jefferson, who he first saw play at a church picnic when he was eight years old. Deciding then and there to become a blues guitarist, he learned the craft from his performer cousins, Texas Alexander and Frankie Lee Sims, eventually becoming Jefferson’s most favored accompanist.

Performing in intimate settings, in small combos or solo, Hopkins developed his unique fingerpicking guitar style, weaving together imaginative rhythm, lead, and bass parts. Free and jazzy, his playing molded a generation of rock guitarists. This selection, “Black Cadillac,” features Hopkins on vocal and guitar, accompanied only by a drummer. It’s more than enough.

That Cadillac wouldn’t run for me

and it won’t run for you

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