As a devout Christian, Jimmy Carter was steeped in religious music of both white and black traditions, knowing the words of even the most obscure gospel songs. This helped him form enduring relationships with civil rights activists. While governor of Georgia he promoted bluesy rock bands, always trying to celebrate the best of the South.
In August 1978, as president, he invited Muddy Waters to perform at the annual White House staff picnic. He introduced the blues singer to the crowd as “one of the greatest performers of all time. He has won more awards than I can name. His music is well known around the world, and he comes from a good part of the country, and represents accurately the background of the American people.”
