Doc Watson has managed to balance his artistry by bringing the level of guitar playing to a fine art as well as retaining the folk music traditions with which he grew up. Clarence Ashley was a great influence on him. Doc also sings very well with a strong, resonant baritone voice that never sound affected. When he sings a ballad, you can get every word clear. (Folkies take note on that one). He is very musical and sophisticated in his guitar accompaniments, at the same time, simple and direct.
His version of Tom Dooley should put to rest any question about the fact that it is a traditional folk song not written by Frank Profit, The Kingston Trio or Frank Warner. (So why did they get the royalties?)
Doc is a legendary story-teller as well. He works very well with the multi-talented David Holt with his complementary banjo playing.
Doc is amazing and a beacon of light in the world of folk music. He represents that tradition of Anglo-American folk music as a master. Also, Jean Ritchie falls into that category as well.