Eric von Schmidt

Eric von Schmidt (1931-2007) was an American folk musician, painter, and songwriter, known for his significant contributions to the folk music revival of the 1960s. He was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, and became an influential figure in the Cambridge, Massachusetts folk scene, where he interacted with and inspired many prominent artists, including Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. Von Schmidt's genre primarily encompassed folk, blues, and traditional American music. Notable works include his albums "Eric von Schmidt" (1963) and "Live at the Bitter End" (1966), as well as his acclaimed song "Baby, Let Me Follow You Down," which was later popularized by Bob Dylan. He also published a notable collection of songs and illustrations titled "The Folk Blues Songbook." His impact on music extended beyond his recordings; he was instrumental in shaping the folk music landscape by mentoring younger musicians and promoting traditional folk and blues styles. Von Schmidt's artistry and dedication to the genre helped preserve and revitalize American folk music, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence artists today.