Folk music fans finally have the chance to immerse themselves in the soulful melodies and timeless artistry of Sonya Cohen Cramer, who we lost in 2015. A singular talent known not only for her haunting vocals but also for her profound impact on the folk music. The release of You’ve Been a Friend to Me, the first comprehensive collection dedicated entirely to her music, marks a long-overdue recognition of Cramer's remarkable contributions to folk and traditional music.

A true renaissance woman, Cramer's career unfolded as a distinguished graphic designer and art director, notably crafting the visual identity for over sixty record packages at Smithsonian Folkways. While she predominantly pursued music for her own fulfillment, her artistry attracted admiration from luminaries like Jeff Buckley, Loudon Wainwright III, Joe Boyd, and Meredith Monk, affirming her status as a "singer’s singer" among her peers.

This collection traces the evolution of Cramer's musical life, from her collaborations with iconic family members like aunt Peggy Seeger and uncle Pete Seeger, to partnerships with musicians such as Elizabeth Mitchell, Daniel Littleton, and the folk-fusion ensemble Last Forever. Spanning nearly three decades, the anthology showcases Cramer's reverence for traditional folk music and her adept reinterpretations of classic ballads.

Central to this retrospective is Cramer's poignant rendition of the titular track, "You’ve Been a Friend to Me," a song she infused with emotional depth during her battle with cancer. Originally penned in 1858 and later popularized by the Carter Family, this piece took on personal significance for Cramer, evolving into a heartfelt anthem that she shared with loved ones just months before her passing.

Mirroring the ethos of her illustrious family, Cramer held a deep reverence for musical heritage, a passion reflected in her collaborations and her design work for Folkways. Beyond her acclaimed tenure with Last Forever, Cramer's artistry intersected with her familial ties throughout her career, underscoring her commitment to preserving and honoring musical traditions.

Throughout her fifty years, Cramer remained unwavering in her pursuit of musical authenticity. Whether interpreting century-old compositions or contemporary ballads, her recordings - from bluegrass renditions to ethereal a cappella performances - were imbued with raw honesty and stripped-down elegance, inviting listeners to connect with music at its most elemental level.