Jean Ritchie was an American folk singer, songwriter, and Appalachian dulcimer player, born in 1922 in the United States. Often referred to as the "Mother of Folk," she preserved and popularized traditional Appalachian music, which included adaptations of centuries-old British and Irish ballads, such as the renowned Child Ballads. Throughout her career, she introduced these songs to wider audiences and composed original works rooted in traditional styles. Her contributions to folk music have been instrumental in keeping Appalachian traditions alive and influencing subsequent generations of musicians.

• Genres: R&B
• Country: USA
• Language: English