Jean Ritchie

Jean Ritchie (1922-2015) was an influential American folk singer and songwriter, often referred to as the "Mother of Folk." Born in Viper, Kentucky, she grew up in a musical family, deeply rooted in Appalachian traditions. Ritchie's genre primarily encompassed folk music, particularly focusing on traditional Appalachian songs, ballads, and dulcimer music. Notable works include her recordings of songs like "The Lark in the Morning," "Black Is the Color (of My True Love's Hair)," and her contributions to the revival of the mountain dulcimer. Her 1952 album, "Jean Ritchie Sings Traditional Songs of Her Kentucky Mountain Family," is considered a landmark in American folk music. Ritchie's impact on music is profound; she not only preserved and popularized traditional Appalachian music but also influenced a generation of folk musicians, including Pete Seeger and Joan Baez. She was instrumental in the folk revival of the 1950s and 60s and received numerous accolades, such as a National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts. Ritchie's dedication to her roots helped elevate the profile of Appalachian culture and music in the broader American musical landscape.