Lead Belly

Lead Belly, born Huddie Ledbetter in 1888, was a highly influential American folk and blues musician known for his powerful singing and songwriting. He mastered the 12-string guitar and sang traditional folk, blues, and prison work songs, which he learned during his time incarcerated. His music has deeply influenced later genres like folk, rock, and blues, and he's credited with popularizing songs such as "Goodnight, Irene" and "The House of the Rising Sun." Lead Belly's soulful voice and storytelling helped preserve American musical traditions and inspired many future artists.