On August 25th, GRAMMY-winning artist Dan Zanes will release Lead Belly, Baby!, his debut album for Smithsonian Folkways. As a young boy, Zanes was drawn to the music of Lead Belly in all of its magic, imagination, and mystery. This discovery completely changed his view of the world and his place in it. Zanes now presents a fresh vision of Lead Belly's folk music reimagined for a new generation with a little help from his friends. Lead Belly, Baby! features guest artists Valerie June, Chuck D., Billy Bragg, Aloe Blacc, and many other contributors.

Zanes has always recognized that children’s music does not necessarily need to be catered to just children. With this philosophy in mind, he has always played music that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Lead Belly, Baby! perfectly fits that bill.

Pre-order Dan Zanes and Friends’ Lead Belly, Baby! and instantly receive a download of “Rock Island Line” featuring Billy Bragg. Back in 2016, Dan Zanes articulated his passion and respect for Lead Belly and his music in the Smithsonian Folkways Magazine.