Trio of Folk Music obituaries

[redsmetz]

I know we don't often talk about classic folk music, but it was noteworthy that there were three obituaries in the last week plus of three folks musicians who impacted the folk scene in one way or another.

First was Will Holt, whose biggest song was Lemon Tree, a song I first heard recorded by Peter, Paul & Mary. In thinking about writing this post though, I immediately thought that Trini Lopez recorded it as well. Probably one of the most recorded folk songs there is. He died on May 31st.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/05/ar...ref=obituaries

On June 1st, Kentucky native, singer and dulcimer player (an instrument she popularized) died at the age of 92. According to the obit, she brought to the fore many songs from Appalachia.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/03/ar...ref=obituaries

And finally, Ronnie Gilbert, a member of the leading folk group of the 1940's and 1950's The Weavers, died on June 6th (the same date Bobby Kennedy died, now that I think about it). Only Fred Hellerman remains of the original group.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/07/ar...ref=obituaries

A few more voices for the heavenly choir this week. RIP

[cumberlandreds]

I heard a lot about Jean Ritchie when I was still living in southeast Kentucky. She was very popular in that neck of the woods. I think she would perform at many of the local festivals that the mountain communities would hold during the summer and fall seasons. By reading her obit she was wildy successful and much more popular throughout the country than I ever thought.

[Sea Ray]

I hope Will Holt got royalties for this one:



Anyone old enough to remember that?