Jean Ritchie was an American folk singer and songwriter, born on December 8, 1922, in Viper, Kentucky. She is often referred to as the "Mother of Folk Music" in America, known for her beautiful voice and mastery of the Appalachian dulcimer. Ritchie played a significant role in preserving and promoting traditional Appalachian music, sharing her cultural heritage through her performances and recordings. Throughout her career, Ritchie released numerous albums and wrote many songs that reflect the themes of love, loss, and nature. She was also an influential figure in the folk music revival of the 1950s and 1960s, inspiring artists like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. Ritchie passed away on June 1, 2022, leaving a lasting legacy in American music.