Lead Belly

Lead Belly, the stage name of Huddie Ledbetter, was a major American folk and blues musician whose repertoire drew on work songs, prison songs, cowboy ballads, spirituals, and popular music. A powerful singer and skilled 12-string guitarist, he helped bring songs such as “Midnight Special,” “Rock Island Line,” and “Goodnight Irene” to wide audiences. His recordings for the Library of Congress and Folkways, along with his influence on later folk, blues, and rock musicians, secured his place in American musical history.