Born in Brownsville, TN, James "Yank" Rachell has given the world an irreplaceable legacy of authentic blues on the mandolin. A gentle and charming man, Yank was revered as a unique and versatile instrumentalist, a compelling vocalist and a gifted songwriter. He wrote countless songs in his lifetime and his compositions have been covered by many musicians. He first recorded in 1929 with Sleepy John Estes and Hammie Nixon in Memphis, TN. Many other recordings, both of Yank solo and with other celebrated companions, followed throughout his life until his death in Indianapolis, where he lived since circa 1958. Acknowledged around the world as a legend in his own time, Yank was the beloved patriarch of the Indianapolis blues community, a national treasure and a devoted family man. He married Ella Mae Johnson in 1937, proudly had four children & was dedicated to the care of his family. James "Yank" Rachell will be deeply missed by his loving family and the vast number of people that were touched by his greatness. He has left a lasting imprint on the world through his music and spirit.