George Harrison famously claimed, "No Lead Belly, no Beatles." Revered by countless musicians, the 1st record Janis Joplin ever bought was Lead Belly. The definitive bio, with historic performances and extraordinary archive access. The folk/blues icon, from childhood through prison to worldwide fame. Stories and performances from Joplin, Harry Belafonte, BB King, Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie and Odetta.