Darling

Erik Darling (September 25, 1933 – August 3, 2008) was an American songwriter and folk music artist who made a significant impact on the folk scene in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Darling drew inspiration from The Weavers and went on to form various musical groups such as The Tunetellers and later The Tarriers with Alan Arkin and Bob Carey. In addition to his group success, Darling recorded three solo albums including "True Religion" which influenced younger folk musicians at the time.

In April 1958, *Darling replaced Pete Seeger* in The Weavers while still performing with The Tarriers until November 1959. He left The Weavers in June 1962 to pursue a solo career on the coffeehouse circuit. That same summer, he formed The Rooftop Singers with Bill Svanoe and Lynn Taylor. Unexpectedly, their rendition of "Walk Right In" became a number one pop hit and Vanguard's most successful record ever.

After disbanding from The Rooftop Singers in 1967, Darling continued recording solo albums for Elektra Records and Vanguard Records. He also collaborated with Patricia Street as Darling And Street throughout the '70s. Erik Darling's contribution to traditional American folk music is highly regarded among fellow musicians and fans alike.