Lunsford Lane was born to slavery in Raleigh in 1803, but slowly saved

Wilkes Lunsford: The King Of Kentucky Folk Music

Lunsford Lane was born to slavery in Raleigh in 1803, but slowly saved

By  Sandrine Johns

Who is the influential figure in American old-time music, the founder of the famous Lunsford family string band?

Wilkes Lunsford was a renowned American old-time musician and folklorist. He is widely recognized as the patriarch of the prominent Lunsford family string band.

Wilkes Lunsford was born in August 1888 in Mars Hill, North Carolina. His passion for music blossomed at a young age, leading him to master several instruments, including the fiddle, banjo, and guitar. Lunsford's musical talent was deeply rooted in the traditional Appalachian folk music that permeated his surroundings.

In 1924, Lunsford embarked on a journey that would forever shape his musical legacy. He assembled a family string band, featuring his wife, sons, and daughters. The Lunsford family string band quickly gained recognition for their captivating performances and authentic renditions of traditional Appalachian music.

The band's success propelled Lunsford into the national spotlight, and he became a regular performer at folk festivals and radio shows. His music reached a wider audience, bringing Appalachian folk music to the forefront of the American music scene.

Beyond his musical contributions, Lunsford was also a dedicated folklorist. He actively collected and preserved traditional Appalachian songs and stories, ensuring their legacy for future generations. His efforts played a significant role in promoting and documenting the rich cultural heritage of his region.

Wilkes Lunsford

  • Founder of the Lunsford Family String Band: Wilkes Lunsford assembled a family band that became renowned for their traditional Appalachian music.
  • Preservation of Appalachian Folk Music: Lunsford was a passionate folklorist who collected and preserved traditional songs and stories, contributing to the documentation of Appalachian culture.
  • Influence on American Old-Time Music: Lunsford's music and performances significantly influenced the development of American old-time music, bringing Appalachian folk traditions to a wider audience.

Wilkes Lunsford

Birth Name Wilkes Lunsford
Birth Date August 1888
Birth Place Mars Hill, North Carolina
Genre Old-time music, folk music
Instruments Fiddle, banjo, guitar
Occupation Musician, folklorist

Frequently Asked Questions about Wilkes Lunsford

This section provides concise answers to some commonly asked questions about Wilkes Lunsford, the influential American old-time musician and folklorist.

Question 1: What was Wilkes Lunsford's primary contribution to American music?

Answer: Wilkes Lunsford's most significant contribution was the founding of the Lunsford family string band, which played a crucial role in preserving and popularizing traditional Appalachian folk music.

Question 2: How did Lunsford contribute to the preservation of Appalachian culture?

Answer: Lunsford was a dedicated folklorist who actively collected and documented traditional Appalachian songs and stories. His efforts helped ensure the legacy of this rich cultural heritage for future generations.

Summary: Wilkes Lunsford's passion for Appalachian folk music and his dedication to preserving its traditions have left a lasting impact on American music. His contributions to the Lunsford family string band and his work as a folklorist continue to inspire and educate audiences today.

Conclusion

Wilkes Lunsford's legacy as a pioneer of American old-time music and a dedicated folklorist remains a testament to the enduring power of tradition. His efforts to preserve and share Appalachian folk music have had a profound impact on the cultural landscape of the United States.

Lunsford's contributions continue to inspire musicians and folklorists alike, reminding us of the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage. His work has not only enriched our understanding of Appalachian culture but has also helped shape the broader American musical landscape. Wilkes Lunsford's legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate for generations to come.

Lunsford Lane was born to slavery in Raleigh in 1803, but slowly saved
Lunsford Lane was born to slavery in Raleigh in 1803, but slowly saved

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Partner with Wilkes Wilkes University
Partner with Wilkes Wilkes University

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