Sounding the Global Jukebox: we owe Alan Lomax a debt of thanks

If Alan Lomax were still alive, he would turn 100 Saturday. His name might not be as familiar as some other giants of folk music in the 20th century (such as Pete Seeger). But if you listen to folk or world music, use internet music streaming services, or just enjoy music from cultural traditions other than your own, you might owe Lomax a small debt of thanks.

A remarkable career

For around seven decades, from the 1930s through the 1990s, Lomax devoted his activities as a folklorist, musicologist, writer, producer and activist to promoting the understanding and appreciation of folk music.

Born in Austin, Texas, his career began as a teenager, when he worked alongside his folklorist father. When Lomax died in 2002 at age 87, the world lost one of its most tireless advocates for folk music.

Today Lomax is best known for his extensive audio and audiovisual recordings, many of them now publicly available. He is renowned for bringing fame to artists like Muddy Waters, Woody Guthrie, and Leadbelly.

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