Pioneering bluegrass musician Bill Clifton has died at the age of 95.
Clifton, whose real name was William August Marburg and was born in Riderwood less than 9 miles northwest of Baltimore, died in his sleep Oct. 30 at his home in Mendota in southwest Virginia, according to Bluegrass Today.
Clifton, a University of Virginia alumnus, is credited with organizing a 1961 bluegrass festival in Luray, Virginia, one of the first festivals of its kind. He is also known for helping organize and promote the Newport Folk Festival, which has been held since 1959, in its early years, according to his obituary.
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He was inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame in 2008.
The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame said: “Bill Clifton’s legacy is one of passion, preservation, and a lifelong commitment to ensuring that traditional American music would continue to be heard and appreciated by future generations. His contributions helped carry bluegrass music across generations and around the world.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Bill’s family, friends, and the many musicians and fans whose lives were touched by his remarkable journey.”
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