Worlds of Music 2: Blog

Woody Guthrie

Woody Guthrie

Woody Guthrie, born on July 14, 1912, in Okemah, Oklahoma, was a legendary American folk singer-songwriter whose music profoundly influenced generations. His work often celebrated the resilience of working-class people and highlighted social and political struggles, encapsulating the spirit of 20th-century America. Guthrie's best-known song, This Land Is Your Land, remains a powerful emblem of inclusivity and hope.

Guthrie's music career blossomed during the Great Depression, as he composed songs inspired by the Dust Bowl and the plight of displaced farmers. With a guitar that famously bore the slogan "This Machine Kills Fascists," Guthrie became a voice of protest and advocacy, creating over 1,000 songs, poems, and essays during his lifetime.

Guthrie's relationship with Moses Asch, the founder of Folkways Records, was instrumental in preserving and amplifying his legacy. Their collaboration began in the 1940s and resulted in the preservation of Guthrie's extensive catalog, including his Dust Bowl Ballads. Asch's commitment to authenticity and cultural preservation aligned perfectly with Guthrie's ethos, ensuring that his music reached future generations.

Folkways Records became a vital platform for Guthrie and other folk artists, emphasizing the importance of music as a reflection of cultural and social values. Guthrie's contributions to Folkways Records not only solidified his place in music history but also influenced the broader folk revival movement.

Guthrie passed away on October 3, 1967, but his partnership with Asch and the enduring legacy of Folkways Records continue to inspire musicians and listeners worldwide.

Listen to more of Woody Guthrie’s music and explore the Global Sounds of Smithsonian Folkways at the Presser Music Library.