Phil Ochs

American Folk Singer-Songwriter and Activist

Phil Ochs was an American protest singer and songwriter, known for his sharp wit, earnest humanism, and incisive lyrics. Born on December 19, 1940, in El Paso, Texas, Ochs rose to prominence in the 1960s folk music scene, particularly within the counterculture movement. His music often addressed social issues of the time such as civil rights, war, and political corruption. Ochs released a number of albums throughout his career, with "Pleasures Of The Harbor" in 1967 and "Rehearsals For Retirement" in 1969 being among his most notable works. These albums reflected a progression in his sound and songwriting, incorporating orchestral arrangements and a more personal lyrical approach. Tragically, Phil Ochs's life was marked by mental health struggles, and he passed away on April 9, 1976. Despite his relatively short career, Ochs's influence endures in the folk music genre and among songwriters who use their craft to comment on social and political issues.