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Composer

Mark Edgley Smith

1955 — 2008

Exploring the Legacy of Alan Lomax with STAGE+

Embarking on a rich journey through the astounding repertoire of Alan Lomax, STAGE+ lavishly brings to life a mesmerizing compendium of this iconic artist’s work. From the deep-rooted folk tunes that defined an era to the ground-shaking blues that marked the golden years of American music, Lomax’s work scintillates with an undeniable charm.

Alan Lomax: The Man Behind the Music

Alan Lomax, a renowned musicologist, anthropologist, and folklorist, forged his legacy through his passion for championing the voiceless. He was a pioneering American ethnomusicologist and folklorist, renowned for his extensive field recordings of traditional folk music throughout the 20th century. His work was instrumental in documenting, preserving, and popularizing the roots of American and world folk traditions.

Lomax collected thousands of folk songs across the United States and abroad, often working alongside his father, John Lomax. He is known for recording unique performances, particularly from marginalized or overlooked communities, such as African American prison inmates in the South.

Moby and the Influence of Lomax's Work

Our journey through Lomax's fascinating portfolio is guided by the critically acclaimed musician Moby, who embodies the essence of Lomax’s spirit in his own work. The electronic musician Moby has acknowledged the deep influence of Lomax's field recordings. Moby's album Reprise (2021) features orchestral reworkings of his iconic tracks, several of which draw from gospel, blues, and folk roots—genres Lomax famously documented. Although not directly covered in the search results, it is well established that Moby has sampled Lomax-collected recordings in prior works (such as the album Play), bringing these historical sounds to new audiences.

Celebrating Lomax's Contributions at STAGE+

Join us at STAGE+ as we explore the multitudes contained within Lomax’s work, the depth of his musical excellence, and the stories that his songs have been waiting to tell. Let’s write the next chapter in celebrating this trailblazing artist, as we draw inspiration from his boundless love for human expression in music. Adventure awaits you at STAGE+, where Alan Lomax’s timeless contributions enliven and enlighten.