Gaither Carlton (1901–1972) was an American old-time fiddle and banjo player, best known for his association with his son-in-law, the legendary folk and bluegrass guitarist Doc Watson. Carlton was born and raised in Deep Gap, North Carolina, an area steeped in the rich traditions of Appalachian folk music which greatly influenced his musical style. While he maintained a relatively low profile, working primarily as a carpenter, his musicianship was deeply respected within the folk community.

Though he made relatively few recordings during his lifetime, his work gained wider recognition when he started performing with Doc Watson in the 1960s. Their collaborations have been celebrated for their authentic representation of Appalachian music, with the album "Doc Watson and Gaither Carlton" standing out as a significant release, providing listeners with an intimate experience of traditional American music. After his passing, the albums "Selections from Doc Watson and Gaither Carlton" and "My Home's Across the Blue Ridge Mountains" continued to bring Carlton's fiddle and vocal renditions to audiences, keeping the spirit of his music alive and underscoring his important contribution to the folk music canon. Despite his modest output, Gaither Carlton's artistry remains a touchstone for the old-time music genre, influencing generations of musicians with his genuine approach to Appalachian folk traditions.

Genres

Appalachian Folk

Clawhammer Banjo

Old-time

Traditional Folk

Latest Release

Doc Watson and Gaither Carlton

Doc Watson•

Gaither Carlton

Album - 15 Tracks - Released May 29, 2020