Morning Music: Phil Ochs and the States of Nixon and Trump

Phil Ochs and “Here’s to the State of Mississippi “

As I have watched the unfolding of the events surrounding the President over the last few weeks the similarities to Trump and Nixon get stronger every day. These similarities led me to the songs of Phil Ochs. Well at least to one song “Here’s to the State of Mississippi”

Way back in the mid-60s during the height of the Civil Rights struggle many people were aghast at the actions of the people of Mississippi. Folksinger Phil Ochs responded through song and wrote the classic “Here’s to the State of Mississippi”. In the song Ochs sang…. read more

Remembering Journalist William Worthy (1921-2014) Democracy Now and “The Ballad of William Worthy” – Phil Ochs (videos)

This morning when I went out to run some errands I took the iPod with me and set it on shuffle songs.Phil Ochs' song "The Ballad of William Worthy" came on about in the middle of the trip. Since Mr Worthy died on the 4th of last month (May), I'll take the playing of the song as a sign that I should take a few moments to reflect on the life of a very important journalist that we should all know a little more about!!

Remembering Journalist William Worthy (1921-2014) Democracy Now and "The Ballad of William Worthy" – Phil Ochs (videos)

This morning when I went out to run some errands I took the iPod with me and set it on shuffle songs.Phil Ochs' song "The Ballad of William Worthy" came on about in the middle of the trip. Since Mr Worthy died on the 4th of last month (May), I'll take the playing of the song as a sign that I should take a few moments to reflect on the life of a very important journalist that we should all know a little more about!!

A Night for Musical Poetry from Phi Ochs “The Highway Man” and “Changes”!!

So tonight I’m in the mood for a little poetry and that means Phil Ochs’ version of “The Highwayman”!! Here’s a short post from about a year ago!

Phil OchsHere  are  two Phil Ochs’ songs. The first is “The Highwayman” based on the poem by Alfred Noyes, from the program “Come, Read to Me a Poem” which appeared on April 12, 1967. This sad and beautiful poem has always been a favorite, Phil did a great job putting the music to the poem and creating a captivating and sad song! read more