Meaning: The quote you've provided is from the influential American guitarist and composer John Fahey. Born in 1939, Fahey was a pivotal figure in the American folk music revival of the 1960s and is known for his innovative and idiosyncratic approach to the acoustic guitar. The quote reflects Fahey's unconventional and somewhat whimsical sense of humor, as well as his deep appreciation for the history and mythology of American music.

When Fahey refers to making his first record and wanting to have "Blind Joe Death" on one side and himself on the other, he is alluding to a creative conceit that he employed on his debut album, released in 1959. The album was titled "Blind Joe Death," and it was the first of several records that Fahey released under that pseudonym. The use of a fictional blues musician as a persona for Fahey allowed him to explore and reinterpret the traditional blues and folk music that he was deeply passionate about.

The concept of "Blind Joe Death" was Fahey's way of paying homage to the early blues and folk artists who had inspired him, while also creating a mythic, larger-than-life figure whose music could exist outside of any specific historical or biographical context. By attributing the music to Blind Joe Death, Fahey was able to immerse himself in the persona of a mysterious and enigmatic bluesman, and in doing so, he added a layer of mystique and intrigue to his own musical identity.

The quote also offers a glimpse into Fahey's sly and playful nature. By framing the creation of "Blind Joe Death" as a "good joke," Fahey reveals his mischievous and irreverent approach to his own artistic career. This sense of humor was a defining aspect of Fahey's personality, and it often manifested in his music through song titles, album artwork, and spoken introductions during live performances.

In addition to his humor, Fahey's quote underscores his deep understanding and respect for the history and traditions of American music. Throughout his career, Fahey was a dedicated scholar and archivist of folk and blues music, and he sought to honor the legacy of the musicians who had come before him. By adopting the persona of Blind Joe Death and creating an entire mythology around this fictional figure, Fahey engaged in a form of musical storytelling that allowed him to connect with the rich and complex tapestry of American musical heritage.

In conclusion, John Fahey's quote about the creation of "Blind Joe Death" offers insight into his creative process, his sense of humor, and his reverence for the traditions of American music. By adopting the persona of Blind Joe Death, Fahey was able to explore and reinterpret the music that inspired him, while also adding an element of mystery and playfulness to his own artistic identity. Fahey's innovative approach to the acoustic guitar and his deep connection to the roots of American music continue to inspire and influence musicians to this day.