The Original Black Betty Song

In December 1933, musicologists John and Alan Lomax recorded a significant piece of American folk music history at Central State Farm, a Texas prison. They captured an a cappella performance by 63-year-old convict James "Iron Head" Baker and other inmates. This recording, made in the field, is considered one of the earliest documented examples of a song that would go on to influence American music. The Lomax brothers' work in preserving such performances has had a lasting impact on our understanding of folk music origins and has influenced many musicians since.