But Things Took A Turn
In 1924, Jimmie Rodgers was diagnosed with tuberculosis. He was only 27 then.
Eight years later, his failing health made it difficult for him to carry out the international tours he had planned. All through the spring of 1933, Rodgers tried booking personal appearances – but with little success.
Even so, in the month of May that year, Rodgers headed to New York to fulfill his Victor Records’ contract for twelve more recordings. It took him a week to complete these group of sessions. During the first day, he managed to record four songs. However, he had to record sitting down the next day. The final recording session was a tough one for Rodgers. He was so weak that he needed to be accompanied by a nurse and would need to rest on a cot between takes.
Sadly, two days later, Rodgers collapsed on the street and died after a few hours.
He was buried in Meridian, Mississippi, which has held the annual Jimmie Rodgers Memorial Festival since 1953 in honor of the anniversary of Rodgers’ death. Truly, a legend will never be forgotten.
