The 40th anniversary of ‘Harp Attack!’ shines a light on St. Louis’s rich harmonica history

The 40th anniversary of ‘Harp Attack!’ shines a light on St. Louis’s rich harmonica history

Author: St. Louis Public Radio August 20, 2026 Duration: 17:05
Also known as the “mouth harp,” the harmonica has deep roots in St. Louis. Those roots run so deep that 40 years ago it inspired the creation of a harmonica review called “Harp Attack!” Jon “Johnny Diamond” Erblich talks about the event’s history, the connections between the harmonica and ST. Louis, and why the underrated, versatile instrument has persisted for so many years in jazz, blues and folk music.

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