Frank Proffitt was a folk musician from North Carolina known for his authentic interpretation and preservation of Appalachian folk music. Born on June 1, 1913, in Laurel Bloomery, Tennessee, and raised in the Reese community of Watauga County, North Carolina, Proffitt came from a family deeply rooted in the traditional music and crafts of the region. An adept banjo player and singer, he became a significant figure in the American folk music revival when folklorist Frank Warner recorded him in the 1940s. One of his most notable contributions to folk music was the song "Tom Dooley," which was based on a local murder ballad he learned from his family; the song eventually reached The Kingston Trio and became a nationwide hit, although Proffitt himself gained little fame from it.

Proffitt's music was collected in several albums that captured the raw and rustic essence of his mountain music heritage. His "Memorial Album," released posthumously, sought to celebrate his life and preserve his legacy, while "Frank Proffitt Sings Folk Songs" was a showcase of his versatility and deep knowledge of the folk repertoire. "Frank Proffitt of Reese, North Carolina" documented his authentic style and the songs he grew up with, cementing his reputation as a cornerstone of American folk tradition. Although Proffitt passed away on November 24, 1965, his music continues to influence and inform generations of musicians interested in the roots of American folk music.

Genres

American Folk Revival

Appalachian Folk

Banjo

Old-time

Traditional Folk

Latest Release

Memorial Album

Frank Proffitt

Album - 16 Tracks - Released January 1, 1968