Jackson C Frank's debut album in 1965 was inspiration to the British folk scene of the time, but sadly the singer never achieved the recognition he deserved.

A tragic event in Jackson's early life appeared to seal his musical destiny, but also trigger his demise.  When he was just eleven years old a furnace at his elementary school in Cheektowaga, New York exploded, killing fifteen children and leaving Jackson with serious burns.  When he was treated in hospital a teacher brought him in an acoustic guitar to keep him occupied.  It was the beginning of a troubled musical journey.

Jackson emigrated to London in the mid 1960's where he became part of the burgeoning folk revival scene.  He cut an an unusual figure in this movement - wearing buttoned up shirts and with a love of expensive cars.  He kept  company with other folk greats of the time, such as Paul Simon, Sandy Denny and Nick Drake, who unlike Jackson - all went on to great things.

So where did it all go wrong for Jackson C Frank?  

Tom spoke to Laura Barton, music writer and broadcaster & maker of the BBC 4 radio documentary Blues Run the Game.

Listen to the interview here.