Jean Ritchie

Jean Ritchie, a luminary of the 1950s folk revival, was an American folk singer, songwriter, and master of the Appalachian dulcimer. Born in Viper, Kentucky, in 1922, Ritchie was a one-woman treasure trove of near-forgotten American folk songs, many of which she learned from her family's rich musical heritage. By the time of her passing in 2015, she had recorded over 30 albums and authored seven books, leaving an indelible mark on the folk music scene. Ritchie's influence was profound, introducing the dulcimer to wider audiences and captivating listeners with her traditional folk, bluegrass, and southern gothic sounds. Her music is a testament to her deep roots and enduring legacy in American folk music.