Fonotone Records: Frederick, Maryland (1956-1969)

Joe Bussard established the last commercial 78 rpm label in the U.S., Fonotone Records, documenting an extraordinary era of old-time music revival from 1956 to 1969.

Dust-to-Digital's definitive retrospective uncovers this hidden treasure trove: 131 tracks lovingly re-mastered from Bussard’s original reels. The compilation restores pristine sound, uncovers forgotten performances, and brings back to life the jam sessions, jugs, fiddles, blues, gospel, and Appalachian string bands that carried on the 78 rpm tradition decades after its commercial peak.

What’s Included

• 131 audio tracks
• Newly remastered
• View the complete tracklist here: [Insert hosted PDF link]
• 160-page book (PDF) featuring:
• Forgotten Kodachrome slides, musician portraits, and scanned label art
• Essays by Lance Ledbetter and Joe Bussard
• Vintage reproductions of 78 rpm labels and personal memorabilia

About the Compilers

Joe Bussard, obsessed 78 collector and eccentric folklorist, ran Fonotone Records from ages 20 to 33. His uncompromising passion preserved a vanishing American musical vernacular, complete with rust-gospel, jug bands, bluegrass, and revivalist blues. Dust-to-Digital’s edition brings his vision to life with vivid audio and imagery—awarded a Grammy nomination for Best Boxed or Special Limited Edition Package, acknowledging its historical and aesthetic impact

Praise & Review

“A treasure trove for enthusiasts of country and old-time music… readers will find five CDs with 131 tracks, a 160-page book, postcards, label reproductions, and even a tiny bottle opener.”

— Pitchfork

“Fonotone was the very last 78 label… it documented the final lingering barbaric yawps of old-time music born and nurtured in the southern United States.”

— BOMB Magazine