Lead Belly

The Profile

Huddie Ledbetter (Lead Belly) was an American folk and blues singer and 12-string guitarist noted for his powerful tenor, wide repertoire (prison songs, spirituals, work songs) and recordings with John and Alan Lomax for the Library of Congress. He recorded extensively in the 1930s–1940s and died in 1949.

Born in Louisiana and long associated with Texas and Louisiana musical traditions; rediscovered and recorded by John and Alan Lomax in prison in the 1930s; famed for songs such as Goodnight Irene, Midnight Special and Rock Island Line; extensive recorded output and influence on folk revivalists.

Reviews praise Lead Belly's powerful voice, distinctive 12-string guitar style and expansive repertoire that spans prison songs, spirituals and popular ballads. His recordings with John and Alan Lomax for the Library of Congress are repeatedly noted. Collections like American Folk & Blues Anthology showcase his range and influence.