Flora Molton (April 10, 1908 – May 31, 1990) was an American gospel and blues singer and guitarist. Blind from birth, she became a prominent figure in the Washington, D.C., music scene, known for her powerful vocal delivery and distinctive fingerstyle guitar playing.
Early Life and Career: Born Flora Williams in Cockeysville, Maryland, Molton moved to Washington, D.C., as a young child. Despite her blindness, she developed a passion for music early in life. She learned to play the guitar and began performing on the streets of the nation's capital, often near the White House, becoming a familiar and beloved street musician. Her repertoire primarily consisted of gospel songs, spirituals, and blues, which she delivered with a deeply emotional and expressive style.
Musical Style and Influence: Molton's music was characterized by its raw authenticity and spiritual intensity. She primarily played a Stella acoustic guitar, accompanying her resonant vocals with a percussive and rhythmic fingerpicking style. Her sound drew from traditional African American spirituals and the early blues tradition, often blurring the lines between sacred and secular music. She believed in the power of music to uplift and inspire, and her performances were often imbued with a profound sense of faith.
Later Recognition and Recordings: While she spent much of her career as a street performer, Molton gained wider recognition later in her life. She performed at various folk festivals, clubs, and universities, sharing stages with notable blues and folk artists. Her recordings include several albums that captured her unique sound:
- Gospel Songs (early 1970s)
- Flora Molton with Nuki and the Gang (1979), featuring harmonica player Phil Wiggins (known as "Nuki")
- I Want to Be Ready (1987)
She continued to perform and record until her death in 1990 in Washington, D.C., leaving behind a legacy as a compelling and authentic voice in American roots music.