Phil Ochs
December 19, 1940 – April 9, 1976
A contemporary of Bob Dylan’s, Phil Ochs was a topical singer who used his voice to educate fans about the world’s injustices. In his relatively short career, he wrote 100s of songs and released eight albums. Instead of “selling out” by only performing at more lucrative venues like clubs and coffee houses, Ochs used his voice as a tool at many anti-Vietnam rallies, civil rights gatherings, student functions and organized labor events. After a strong run in the ’60s, mental issues along with a perceived lack of success began to plague him as the ’70s dawned. Ochs suffered from both bipolar disorder and alcoholism which culminated in him hanging himself on April 9, 1976.
What You Should Own
Nice, succinct synopsis.
Poor Phil. I believe Ochs lived for some time in my birthplace, Far Rockaway. Too bad the sound of the waves couldn’t distract him from his suicidal thoughts.