Lead Belly – Folk Musicians Series

Lead Belly, also known as Huddie William Ledbetter, was an American folk and blues musician born in Louisiana in 1888. He is best known for his powerful vocals and unique guitar style, which combined elements of folk, blues, and country music.

Lead Belly grew up in poverty and faced many challenges throughout his life, including multiple stints in prison. Despite these challenges, he was able to gain popularity as a musician in the 1930s and 1940s, performing at concerts and on radio programs.

He is perhaps best known for his songs “Goodnight Irene,” “The Midnight Special,” and “Rock Island Line,” which have been covered by numerous musicians over the years. Lead Belly’s music had a significant impact on the development of American folk and blues music, and he is considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.

In 1998, the United States Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp in honor of Lead Belly’s contributions to American music. The stamp features a portrait of the musician and the words “Lead Belly, Folk Musician.”