Singing Arizona
By Cassaundra Brooks
Photo courtesy of Dolan Ellis
Are you aware that Arizona has an official state balladeer? Since Governor Sam Goddard appointed Dolan Ellis Arizona’s official state balladeer in 1966, every subsequent Arizona governor has reappointed him to the position, making Ellis not only the first state balladeer in the country, but also Arizona’s first-and-only state balladeer. Ellis, who won a “Best Group” Grammy in 1963 with the New Christy Minstrels, has written over 300 songs about our beloved state that he proudly calls home. The Scottsdale resident not only accompanies his original songs with his baritone voice and twelve-string guitar, but also with his photography. The endless miles he has traveled throughout Arizona have provided numerous sources of inspiration for his songs, and he uses his onstage photographs to add a little something special to his music.
Ever concerned with preserving Arizona history, this first Arizona Culture Keeper, with some help, unveiled the Arizona Folklore Preserve in 1990. The converted ranch house is situated in Ramsey Canyon, south of Sierra Vista, and is now maintained by the University of Arizona South. Filled with memorabilia and information pertaining to Arizona folklore, it is, as stated on the official Web site, “where Arizona’s songs, legends, poetry, and myths are collected, presented for audiences today, and preserved for the enrichment of future generations.” Many Arizona artists, including Ellis, have graced the preserve with their talents as guests.
Ellis has received a number of honors, including the 1996 Citizen of the Year award, and has represented Arizona in twenty countries. He has thoroughly enjoyed his forty-one year as Arizona’s esteemed official state balladeer, but is concerned that there are too few young people interested enough in his line of work, and wonders to whom he might eventually pass the torch. For, despite the many responsibilities that demand our time and energy, preserving Arizona’s culture is not a burden—especially when using music.
For more information on Dolan Ellis or how to become Arizona’s second official state balladeer, visit dolanellis.net. For more information on the Arizona Folklore Preserve, visit arizonafolklore.com.