Woody Guthrie

Woody Guthrie, a legendary folk singer, championed the working class through his poignant songs, leaving an indelible mark on American music and social activism.

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Birth Name :

Woodrow Wilson Guthrie

Profession :

Folk Singer

Birthday :

July 14, 1912

Star Sign :

Cancer

Death Date:

October 03, 1967

Age :

55

Birthplace :

Okemah, Oklahoma

Woody Guthrie, born Woodrow Wilson Guthrie on July 14, 1912, in Okemah, Oklahoma, rose to prominence as a leading figure in American folk music. His journey began in the 1930s when he performed at local talent shows and radio stations. Guthrie gained national recognition during the Dust Bowl era with his poignant songs like “Dust Bowl Ballads” and the iconic “This Land Is Your Land,” which has become one of the most beloved American folk anthems.

Throughout his career, Guthrie traveled extensively, connecting with migrant workers and labor unions, using his music as a powerful tool for social change. He became a central figure in the folk music revival of the 1940s and 1950s, collaborating with notable musicians like Pete Seeger and Cisco Houston.

Guthrie’s prolific songwriting resulted in over 1,000 songs, many of which have become folk standards. His influence on subsequent generations of musicians is immeasurable, with artists like Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and Joan Baez citing him as a major inspiration.

Beyond his musical contributions, Guthrie was also known for his unwavering political activism and outspoken views, which led to his blacklisting by the FBI. His guitar famously bore the slogan “This machine kills fascists,” reflecting his strong stance against injustice and oppression.

Despite personal struggles, including his battle with Huntington’s disease, Guthrie’s spirit remained unyielding. His legacy lives on through his vast body of work, which continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. His archives, housed at the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, preserve his handwritten lyrics and recordings, ensuring that his impact on American folk music endures for generations to come.

Woody Guthrie’s unwavering dedication to social justice, his poetic lyrics, and his enduring influence on the music world solidify his status as an iconic figure in American folk music history.