Bascom Lamar Lunsford, born on March 21, 1882, in Mars Hill, North Carolina, was a folklorist, lawyer, and musician, known as the "Minstrel of the Appalachians." Lunsford's legacy is rooted deeply in the preservation and celebration of Appalachian music and culture. He grew up in a community steeped in the tradition of folk music and dance, which profoundly influenced his life's work. Lunsford learned to play the banjo and fiddle, and throughout his life, he collected songs and tunes, some of which he wrote himself, and many others that he learned from the rich oral traditions of the Southern Appalachians.

In the early 20th century, Lunsford began his journey of preserving Appalachian folk music by traveling across the mountainous regions, often on horseback, to document and learn songs directly from local musicians. His extensive collection of songs led to numerous recordings, including "Music From South Turkey Creek" and "Smoky Mountain Ballads," which have become essential archives of traditional American music. A testament to his dedication to the craft, even years after his passing in 1973, Lunsford's work continues to be celebrated and preserved, with remastered releases like "Dry Bones (2020 Remaster)" ensuring that new generations can experience the rich tapestry of Appalachian music. Lunsford is perhaps best remembered for founding the annual Mountain Dance and Folk Festival in Asheville, North Carolina, which began in 1928 and continues to this day, serving as a living monument to his passion for Appalachian music and culture.