My hero, Elizabeth Cotten

Elizabeth Cotten learned guitar upside down because she was left-handed and could only borrow right-handed guitars from friends. Despite this setback, she became an amazing folk guitar player. Her discovery came while she was working as a nanny for the Charles and Ruth Seeger family. As you probably know, this family was deeply involved in the music industry. They overheard Elizabeth playing a pretty tune on a family guitar and offered to launch her into music history. Although she was well in her 60's, she accepted a record deal and a rigorous touring schedule. She later won a Grammy for Best Ethnic or Traditional recording. Her songs have been covered by the likes of Peter Paul and Mary, Bob Dylan and Jerry Garcia. In short, Elizabeth Cotten rules (ruled)!