Biography

Fiddler. Born December 5, 1918. Died December 3, 2004. Renowned long-bow fiddle player. Performed with his band, the Southern Ramblers, 1930s-1955. Left his musical career in 1955, but returned in 1982 with the formation of the New Southern Ramblers.

Interview Summary

1988 November 11
(3 hours)
Musician Ralph Blizard talks about his development as a long-bow fiddler and gives a brief overview of his long career. Discussion includes musical influences; fiddle contests; performing on radio shows in the Kingsport, Tennessee area; the decision to remain a local musician; working for Eastman Kodak; his changing fiddle style; his 1980s band, the New Southern Ramblers; his repertoire of songs; and comments on traditional music.