Huddie William Ledbetter, famously known as Lead Belly, passed away on this day in 1949 at the age of 61. A master of the 12-string guitar, Lead Belly was a pioneering figure in American folk and blues music. His powerful voice and deep catalog of songs—including “Goodnight, Irene,” “Midnight Special,” and “Where Did You Sleep Last Night”—influenced generations of artists across genres.
Lead Belly’s music captured the struggles and spirit of African American life in the early 20th century, and his legacy continues to echo through blues, rock, and folk music today.
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