Tag: Clark Kessinger

June 4, 1975: Old-Time Fiddler Clark Kessinger Dies at 78

Old-time fiddler Clark Kessinger died in St. Albans on June 4, 1975, at age 78. Known for his near-perfect intonation and impeccable tone, Kessinger was a pioneer in the resurgence of traditional music in the late 20th century.

Kessinger’s career started in the 1920s, when he and his nephew launched a duo known as the Kessinger Brothers. In 1927, they began performing live on Charleston’s first radio station. Over the next three years, they recorded more than 60 instrumental tunes.

As with many other performers, the duo’s career was cut short by the Great Depression. For the next three decades, Clark Kessinger performed primarily at local dances. His obscurity came to an end when he was rediscovered just in time for the ’60s folk revival.

Clark Kessinger’s enthusiastic style is still imitated by up-and-coming fiddlers around the world.

February 4, 1951: Fiddler "Blind Ed" Haley Dies in Ashland KY

Legendary fiddler “Blind Ed” Haley died in Ashland, Kentucky, on February 4, 1951.

The Logan County native never made any commercial recordings during his lifetime because he feared that record companies would cheat a blind musician. However, just by playing on street corners, courthouse squares, and other public places, he became one of the most influential fiddlers of his day. Fiddle great Clark Kessinger considered him the best he’d ever heard.

For years after Haley’s death, stories circulated about the fiddler’s remarkable talent. Without recordings, though, music enthusiasts were left to their imaginations. But it turned out that Haley’s son had saved some home recordings. The Library of Congress made copies of these, which became the basis for two albums from Rounder Records.

Blind Ed Haley’s influence is still apparent in the styles of some of today’s best fiddlers.

Exit mobile version