Biography
In the manner of a carnival sideshow attraction, Jilson Setters was exhibited as a blind mountaineer newly extracted from isolation to entertain refined audiences. He cut multiple recordings for RCA Victor along with the Library of Congress and traveled extensively for performances, encompassing social gatherings in New York as well as a presentation before England's King George V. Originally named James William Day and hailing from Cattlesburg, Kentucky, his initial recognition came via Jean "Traipsin' Woman" Thomas, founder of the American Folk Song Festival in Ashland. At that event, Thomas introduced him under the moniker "the Singin' Fiddler of Lost Hope Hollow" as an individual blind since birth right up until his sudden appearance. According to accounts, a surgical procedure restored his vision, rendering the trappings of modern society unexpectedly novel. Various scholars verified these details, enabling Setters to participate in numerous folk festivals and elite gatherings. He also became the focus of a published volume and eventually performed directly for the monarch. His recording activity took place in the late 1920s, with live performances extending through the early 1940s shortly prior to his passing, all seemingly free from any scrutiny regarding his origins.
Singles