Grammy-nominated folk-singer Odetta, whose lengthy recording career began more than a half century ago, has died. She was 77.

The artist--whose full name was Odetta Holmes--died yesterday (12/2) of heart disease at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, according to published reports. She had been admitted to the hospital three weeks ago due to kidney failure.

Though wheelchair bound in recent years due to her failing health, Odetta continued to tour, performing 60 concerts during the past two years, and singing for 90 minutes at a time, according to the Associated press.

Odetta, who in 1999 was honored with the National Medal of Arts, has been credited with influencing a lengthy roster of singers, including Bob Dylan, Joan Baez and Harry Belafonte.