Leadbelly
Huddie William Ledbetter, better known by his stage name Lead Belly, was born in January 1888 or 1889 near Mooringsport, Louisiana. He was a prominent American folk and blues musician, renowned for his powerful vocals and masterful 12-string guitar performances. His music encompassed a wide range of genres, including folk, blues, and gospel, and he was known for songs like "Goodnight, Irene," "In the Pines," and "The Midnight Special."
Lead Belly's life was marked by significant challenges, including multiple incarcerations for violent offenses. Notably, he was imprisoned in Texas for murder in 1918, where he reportedly earned an early release by singing for the governor. He was later discovered by folklorists John and Alan Lomax while serving another sentence in Louisiana, leading to the collection of his songs for the Library of Congress.
In 1937, Lead Belly moved to New York City, where he worked with other influential musicians such as Woody Guthrie. Despite his struggles, including further legal issues, he continued to perform and record extensively. His contributions to music were recognized posthumously with his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 and the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in 2008. Lead Belly passed away in New York City on December 6, 1949, but his legacy endures through his timeless music and influence on future generations.
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