Erik Darling facts for kids

Erik Darling (born September 25, 1933 – died August 3, 2008) was an American singer and songwriter. He was a very important person in the world of folk music during the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Erik Darling's Early Life and Music Journey

Erik Darling was born in Baltimore, Maryland. He started college at New York University in the early 1950s. However, he soon decided to leave college to follow his passion for music.

Joining and Forming Folk Groups

Erik loved the music of a group called The Weavers. In the 1950s, he started his own group, The Tunetellers. This group later became The Tarriers. He formed it with actor and singer Alan Arkin. Their song, "Banana Boat Song", became a big hit. It reached number 4 on the Billboard music chart!

In April 1958, Erik Darling joined The Weavers. He took the place of Pete Seeger, another famous folk musician. Erik also kept performing with The Tarriers until November 1959.

Solo Albums and Collaborations

Erik Darling also made three solo albums. His second album, True Religion, came out in 1961. It was released by Vanguard and was very important for younger folk musicians. In 1956, he played music for the Kossoy Sisters on their album Bowling Green. He also played banjo on an album called Banjo Music of the Southern Appalachians.

The Rooftop Singers and "Walk Right In"

In June 1962, Erik left The Weavers. He wanted to perform by himself in coffeehouses. That summer, he started a new group called The Rooftop Singers. He formed it with his friend Bill Svanoe and jazz singer Lynn Taylor.

They planned for the group to only record songs in the studio. But then, something amazing happened! Their cover of "Walk Right In", a song from 1929, became a number one pop hit.

Erik Darling's Influence on Other Musicians

Don McLean, a famous singer-songwriter, became friends with Erik Darling in 1961. Don McLean said that Erik was a "genuine philosopher and perfectionist." He admired how Erik paid close attention to every part of making music. Don McLean felt that some of Erik's dedication rubbed off on him.

Erik Darling passed away in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, on August 3, 2008. He was 74 years old.