Explore various musical styles, musicians and music-related careers.
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Recorded during a live performance at the Botanical Gardens at Clemson University. 2003.
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Traditional Appalachian ballad performed by Shelah Lafayette Laws. Recorded by Alda in 1967 when Shelah was 87 years old. When asked about the song, Shelah could only remember that he learned it as a...
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J.R. Wilkie, McCormick (McCormick County) realtor who was a musician prior to WWII. Interview conducted by Anne Kimzey.
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Ralph and his wife Faye singing one of their favorite old-time gospel numbers. Recorded in 1955 and transferred by Alda Smith.
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J.R. Wilkie, McCormick (McCormick County) realtor who was a musician prior to WWII. Interview conducted by Anne Kimzey.
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This song features Ralph on guitar and 5-year old Warren Smith on vocals. Recorded in 1955 and transferred by Alda Smith.
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A traditional steel guitar or Dobro tune performed by Alda. This was a very familiar number to Alda - his father Ralph performed it often - along with several other steel guitar standards.
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An original tune written and performed by Orris Smith, son of Ralph and brother of Alda. Recorded in Virginia in 1975 and transferred by Alda.
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From the recording "Vernon Riddle & His Fiddle." Features Riddle's wife Ruth on guitar.
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Ralph Smith performing on Country Earle's WAGI radio program in 1955. Ralph was well-known for his "talking blues" and played many of the same songs as upstate blues musician and talking blues pioneer...