Fifty years ago on the 6th December 1949 Huddie 'Lead Belly' Ledbetter passed away and the world lost arguably the greatest folk singer and composer of the twentieth century. He had lived a varied life as a cotton picker, farmer, cowboy, convict and guide to his mentor, the great blues singer Blind Lemon Jefferson. He became a master of the twelve string guitar with a unique singing style. As a collector and performer of the popular music of his day, his repertoire included work songs, spirituals, cowboy songs and blues - he left a legacy of over 500 recordings reflecting America in all its hues. In Britain it was Lonnie Donegan and the skiffle craze that introduced Lead Belly in popular culture. His songs, including the skiffle anthems Rock Island Line and Midnight Special, were performed by every group in the land. The roots of British rock can be traced back to Lead Belly via artists like Van Morrison, Eric Clapton and The Beatles. The concert at the Royal Albert Hall is a celebration of his music performed by musicians form both sides of the Atlantic, who have been touched by the magic of Lead Belly.| 7 Dec 99 | Royal Albert Hall Inner London, Greater London Performance Details => Venue archive |
