Woodrow Wilson Guthrie, born on July 14, 1912, and passed away on October 3, 1967, was a renowned American singer-songwriter and composer who left an indelible mark on American folk music. His remarkable body of work was deeply rooted in themes of American socialism and anti-fascism, inspiring numerous generations across both political and musical spectrums. The iconic song "This Land Is Your Land" is a testament to his lasting impact.
Throughout his illustrious career, Guthrie penned hundreds of country, folk, and children's songs, as well as ballads and improvised works. His critically acclaimed album, Dust Bowl Ballads, which chronicles the Dust Bowl era, was selected by Mojo magazine as one of the 100 Records That Changed The World. Moreover, many of his recorded songs are preserved in the Library of Congress, a testament to his enduring legacy.
Guthrie's influence can be seen in the work of numerous songwriters, including Bob Dylan, Phil Ochs, Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen, Robert Hunter, Harry Chapin, John Mellencamp, Pete Seeger, Andy Irvine, Joe Strummer, Billy Bragg, Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir, Jeff Tweedy, Tom Paxton, Brian Fallon, Sean Bonnette, and Sixto Rodríguez, all of whom have acknowledged his profound influence on their own creative endeavors.
Guthrie's performances were often punctuated by the display of a provocative message on his guitar: "This machine kills fascists." This bold statement reflected his unwavering commitment to his artistic and political ideals, leaving a lasting imprint on the world of music and beyond.
