Lead Belly

Full Name: Huddie William Ledbetter
Profession: Blues Musician

Biography: Notable for his strong vocals, virtuosity on the twelve-string guitar, and the songbook of folk standards he introduced. Although he most commonly played the twelve-string, he could also play the piano, mandolin, harmonica, violin, and accordion.

In some of his recordings, such as in one of his versions of the folk ballad "John Hardy", he performs on the accordion instead of the guitar. In other recordings he just sings while clapping his hands or stomping his foot.

Born: January 20, 1888
Birthplace: Mooringsport, Louisiana, USA

Generation: Lost Generation
Star Sign: Aquarius

Died: December 6, 1949 (aged 61)
Cause of Death: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis