Celebrating North Louisiana musician’s legacy

Huddie Ledbetter died 75 years ago this December. But Saturday, Oct. 19, the man better known by his stage name, Lead Belly, will come to life – through his music.

The Lead Belly Graveside Jam will occur at noon in the cemetery at Shiloh Baptist Church in Mooringsport. That’s where the American folk and blues singer and several family members are buried.

Aside from a statue in front of the downtown Shreve Memorial Library, “There’s really nothing memorializing the fact that this really important giant’s music is a Shreveport, North Louisiana person,” said one of the Jam’s organizers, Kathryn Hobgood. “We want to celebrate that. This is our way of doing that. It’s our way of celebrating him and showing homage to his impact.”

According to Wikipedia, Lead Belly was born on a plantation near Mooringsport. He recorded for several record labels and was known for his talents on the 12-string guitar, the piano, mandolin, harmonica, violin and windjammer.

“Huddie Ledbetter is revered around the world for his music and the legacy of songs he brought to attention,” Hobgood said. “He was a traveling musician who would pick up folk songs from all regions of the country. He sang them with incredible passion and command. He earned an incredible reputation all around the world.”

The Jam has been held for more than 30 years. Hobgood said no less than a dozen local musicians usually show up to play Lead Belly’s music.

“You will have people bring guitars, mandolins and upright bass. We encourage anyone to bring a musical instrument.”

While at the Jam, you will likely meet some of Lead Belly’s kin.

“Lead Belly family members still attend that church,” Hobgood said. “The cemetery is full of headstones naming Ledbetter family members. The church is very supportive, warm and embracing of our community. Many church members have been involved over the years.”

Hobgood said Lead Belly’s talents influenced several well-known artists and groups.

“His impact on American folk music has continued to be felt through all genres we associate with American music. Blues, country, rock and roll and all of the British rock and roll people who also have picked up his music. Think Led Zepplin, Robert Plant, the Rolling Stones. They were all impacted by Huddie Ledbetter, and he’s from right here.”

To learn more about the Lead Belly Graveside Jam, you may visit Facebook and search for Lead Belly Graveside Jam.