Jimmy Driftwood

Folk Singer

Birthday June 20, 1907

Birth Sign Gemini

Birthplace Arkansas

DEATH DATE Jul 12, 1998 (91)

#232083 Most Popular

About

American folk music legend who recorded more than 6,000 song during his career, more than 300 of which have been covered by other artists. He won several Grammys, including one for Song of the Year for "The Battle of New Orleans" in 1960.

Before Fame

He learned to play guitar on a homemade instrument given to him by his grandfather. He began a career as a teacher shortly after earning a degree in education from Arkansas State Teacher's College.

Trivia

He had a total of six songs on the popular and country music singles charts in 1959 alone.

Family Life

He is the son of folk singer Neil Morris. He married Cleda Johnson in 1936.

Associated With

His American folk classic "The Battle of New Orleans" was covered by Johnny Horton.