Skip to main content
▶ WHOPLAYSNOW
John Hartford

John Hartford

John Cowan Hartford was an American folk, country and bluegrass composer and musician known for his mastery of the fiddle and banjo, as well as for his witty lyrics, unique vocal style, and extensive knowledge of Mississippi River lore. Hartford performed with a variety of ensembles throughout his career, and is perhaps best known for his solo performances where he would interchange the guitar, banjo, and fiddle from song to song. He also invented his own shuffle tap dance move, and clogged on an amplified piece of plywood while he played and sang.

Known for

Big Family: The Story of Bluegrass Music
Big Family: The Story of Bluegrass Music
2019 • Self (archive footage)
Down from the Mountain
Down from the Mountain
2001 • Self
Nanci Griffith: Other Voices, Other Rooms
Nanci Griffith: Other Voices, Other Rooms
1993 • Self
Banjoes, Fiddles & Riverboats: John Hartford and the General Jackson
Banjoes, Fiddles & Riverboats: John Hartford and the General Jackson
1991 • Himself
The Return of the Beverly Hillbillies
The Return of the Beverly Hillbillies
1981 • Fiddle Player

Full filmography

John Hartford – Biography, Known For & Filmography