The quaint town of Carrboro, North Carolina, has dedicated a day to celebrate the legacy of its own legendary musician, Elizabeth “Libba” Cotten. Officially proclaimed by Mayor Barbara Foushee, Jan. 5, which was this past Sunday, marks Elizabeth Cotten Day, in honor of what would have been the musician’s 132nd birthday anniversary. Cotten, best known for her classic tune “Freight Train”, penned in her youth, drew inspiration from the locomotive sounds that once permeated the air of her childhood street.
A special event held at the Carrboro Century Center this past Sunday featured Brenda Evans, Cotten’s great-granddaughter, who shared songs and stories of her forbearer’s life. Evans, whose vocal talents came to light at the age of 12 on the album “Shake Sugaree”, was not alone in paying musical tribute. Jordan, Jared, and John Evans, the great-great-grandchildren of Cotten, joined her in celebrating their shared familial heritage, and, their love for the music that has become their legacy. The Carrboro town acted as a host for this intimate gathering, pulling together community members and admirers alike.
Elizabeth Cotten’s music journey is one of unlikely twists and turns. While working in the household of the Seeger family, her profound talents as a guitarist and songwriter caught their attention, eventually leading her down the path of becoming an acclaimed professional musician. Cotten’s storied career, which included national tours, and album recordings, eventually led to a Grammy Award and a National Heritage Fellowship. Her storied chapter concluded with her passing in 1987 and posthumous recognition with a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2022 – a testament to her enduring influence…