Ronnie Gilbert

Ronnie Gilbert was a powerful voice in American folk music and a founding member of the influential group The Weavers. Known for her rich contralto and passionate delivery, she helped define the sound of mid-20th-century protest music. Alongside Pete Seeger, Lee Hays, and Fred Hellerman, Gilbert and The Weavers brought folk music to mainstream audiences in the 1950s, with hits like “Goodnight, Irene” and “If I Had a Hammer,” while also facing blacklisting during the McCarthy era for their political beliefs.

Beyond The Weavers, Ronnie had a long and vibrant solo career and was known as an outspoken advocate for social justice and women's rights. She continued performing and recording well into her later years, often collaborating with other folk icons like Holly Near. Her legacy lives on as a trailblazer whose voice helped shape the American folk revival and gave strength to generations of activists and artists.

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