The American Music Research Center archival collections within the University of Colorado Boulder Libraries’ Rare and Distinctive Collections has recently required a collection of materials from American banjo player Otis Taylor.
Taylor, who spent his childhood in Denver, Colorado, has released 15 blues albums throughout his career and won numerous awards for his music. He has toured internationally with several other bands and musicians and his work has been featured in various films and television shows. In 2019, he was inducted into the Colorado Music Hall of Fame.
The new collection at the University of Colorado Boulder features materials and documents from throughout Taylor’s career such as handwritten drafts of song lyrics, musical recordings, photographs, and concert memorabilia.
“I’m honored that my musical legacy is being added to the American Music Research Center’s archival collections,” said Taylor. “After several meaningful collaborations with the AMRC in recent years, I know my collection is in good hands. My hope is that future students and scholars will continue to learn about the evolution of American blues and its significance in world music.”