John Hartford was an American singer-songwriter and musician, known for his contributions to the genres of bluegrass and folk music. Born on December 30, 1937, in New York City, he became famous for his unique style that blended traditional American music with innovative elements. Hartford was also a skilled fiddler and banjo player, and he often incorporated storytelling into his songs. Hartford gained widespread recognition for his hit song “Gentle on My Mind,” which won multiple awards and has been covered by many artists, including Glen Campbell. Throughout his career, he released numerous albums and was influential in the revival of traditional American music. He passed away on June 4, 2001, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world.