BRADLEY KINCAID
Bradley Kincaid (1895–1989) was one of the most influential performers of traditional American folk songs during the early years of country music. Raised in the hills of Kentucky, he gained national recognition through Chicago's WLS National Barn Dance, where his warm voice and straightforward guitar accompaniment introduced millions of listeners to old ballads, play-party songs and mountain tunes. Throughout his career, Kincaid remained committed to preserving traditional music, publishing bestselling songbooks and recording hundreds of songs that helped shape the American folk revival.
AIN'T WE CRAZY
Recorded September 13, 1934 – New York City, New York
Matrix 38653-A - Decca 5025
"Ain't We Crazy" is a humorous novelty song that reflects Bradley Kincaid's lighter side. Delivered with his characteristic warmth and conversational style, the performance is built around a steady, uncomplicated guitar accompaniment that allows the lyrics to take center stage. Like many of Kincaid's recordings, the song captures the informal charm of a singer entertaining an audience with little more than a voice, a guitar and a good story.
BURY ME OUT ON THE PRAIRIE
Recorded January 3, 1931 – Chicago, Illinois
Matrix C-6872-B - Melotone M12332
"Bury Me Out on the Prairie", also known as "The Cowboy's Lament," is one of the best-known cowboy songs in the American tradition. Dating back to the late nineteenth century, it expresses a dying cowboy's wish to be buried beneath the open prairie rather than returned home. Bradley Kincaid's version is simple and unadorned, relying on his warm vocal delivery and steady guitar accompaniment to let the timeless melody and poignant lyrics speak for themselves.
ON TOP OF OLD SMOKY
Recorded October 4, 1929 — Richmond, Indiana
Matrix: 15736 - Gennett 7034
"On Top Of Old Smoky" is Bradley Kincaid's interpretation of one of the best-loved Appalachian folk songs. His accompaniment exemplifies the early parlor-style approach to song accompaniment, using a light, flowing texture that supports the melody without overpowering it. With its steady rhythm, clean chord changes, and natural phrasing, the performance captures the quiet simplicity that made Kincaid one of the foremost interpreters of traditional mountain songs.
