This Clay County duo came from a musical family. David played guitar and autoharp, while John remains a top old-time fiddler. Surrounded by talented neighbors, like French Carpenter and Jenes Cottrell, the brothers continued a long-lasting musical tradition.

In 1969, they started the Morris Family Old-Time Music Festival, which drew thousands, including many legendary mountain musicians. They also helped create the Vandalia Gathering, still held each Memorial Day weekend at the State Capitol in Charleston. They toured widely, released recordings, and appeared in films, including the Oscar-winning Harlan County, USA.

David was also known for his powerful singing voice, and both supported union and environmental causes. In 2020, John was honored as a National Heritage Fellow, the nation’s highest award for traditional artists.