John Hartford

from New York City, New York, USA

Image of John Hartford

Biography

John Cowan Hartford was an American folk, country and bluegrass composer and musician known for his mastery of the fiddle and banjo, as well as for his witty lyrics, unique vocal style, and extensive knowledge of Mississippi River lore. Hartford performed with a variety of ensembles throughout his career, and is perhaps best known for his solo performances where he would interchange the guitar, banjo, and fiddle from song to song. He also invented his own shuffle tap dance move, and clogged on an amplified piece of plywood while he played and sang.

Timeline

2019Aged 82

  • Poster for Big Family: The Story of Bluegrass Music

    Self (archive footage)

2001Aged 64

  • Poster for Down from the Mountain

    Self

2000Aged 63

  • Poster for O Brother, Where Art Thou?

    Thanks

1993Aged 56

  • Poster for Nanci Griffith: Other Voices, Other Rooms

    Self

1991Aged 54

  • Poster for Banjoes, Fiddles & Riverboats: John Hartford and the General Jackson

    Himself

1988Aged 51

  • Poster for The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour: The 20th Reunion

    Self

1981Aged 44

  • Poster for The Return of the Beverly Hillbillies

    Fiddle Player