Jackson C. Frank Mystery

Jackson C. Frank has become a legend as an American folk musician and songwriter, known for his brief but influential career in the 1960s. He was born on 2nd March 1943, in Buffalo, New York, and he passed away on 3rd March 1999. Frank is often associated with the folk revival movement of the 1960s and is particularly well-known for his self-titled debut album, "Jackson C. Frank," which was released in 1965.

Jackson C. Frank's life was marked by tragedy. He was severely injured in a fire at his elementary school when he was 11 years old, and the incident left him with significant physical and emotional scars. His hand was badly burned, which made it difficult for him to play the guitar, but he eventually learned to play left-handed. The emotional trauma he experienced also influenced his song writing, leading to deeply personal and introspective lyrics.

Frank's debut album, "Jackson C. Frank," is considered a folk classic. It featured songs like "Blues Run the Game" and "Milk and Honey," which have been covered by numerous artists over the years incl. Simon and Garfunkel, Wizz Jones and Bert Jansch. Jackson’s music is characterised by his hauntingly beautiful voice and fingerstyle guitar playing. Despite the critical acclaim for his work, Frank's career was plagued by personal struggles and mental health issues.

After the release of his debut album, Jackson C. Frank faced a series of setbacks, including the tragic death of his young son and ongoing mental health issues. He struggled with homelessness and spent time in mental institutions. His music, while influential, did not achieve commercial success during his lifetime.

In the years since his passing, Jackson C. Frank's music has gained a cult following, and his songs continue to be celebrated for their emotional depth and poetic lyrics. His life story and music are a testament to the enduring impact of folk music in the 1960s and the way it has touched the lives of many listeners and subsequent generations of musicians.