Date of Birth: December 19, 1940
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Date of Death: April 9, 1976
Biography
Phil Ochs was an American protest singer and songwriter known for his sharp wit, poignant lyrics, and unwavering dedication to social justice. Born on December 19, 1940, in El Paso, Texas, Ochs grew up in a turbulent post-war America, which heavily influenced his musical and political outlook. He attended Ohio State University, where he became involved in the folk music scene and started writing songs that reflected his political beliefs. Ochs moved to New York City in the early 1960s and became a prominent figure in the Greenwich Village folk scene. He released his debut album, “All the News That’s Fit to Sing,” in 1964. Over the next decade, Ochs released several influential albums, including “I Ain’t Marching Anymore” and “Pleasures of the Harbor,” that tackled issues such as war, civil rights, and social inequities. His commitment to political activism was unwavering, and he participated in numerous protests and rallies, including the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Despite his significant contributions to music and activism, Ochs struggled with depression and substance abuse. Tragically, he died by suicide on April 9, 1976, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire musicians and activists alike.
5 Interesting Facts about Phil Ochs
1. Phil Ochs was a prolific songwriter, penning over 100 songs throughout his career.
2. He co-founded the Yippies (Youth International Party) with Abbie Hoffman and Jerry Rubin.
3. Ochs was known for his “singing journalism,” blending news headlines and social commentary into his music.
4. He was deeply affected by the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr., which influenced his later works.
5. Ochs’ song “I Ain’t Marching Anymore” became an anthem for the anti-Vietnam War movement.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Phil Ochs
1. “In such ugly times, the only true protest is beauty.”
2. “A protest song is a song that’s so specific that you cannot mistake it for bullshit.”
3. “One good song with a message can bring a point more deeply to more people than a thousand rallies.”
4. “I think I’ve been able to tell the truth in a few songs. I think I’ve made a few people feel a little better.”
5. “There but for fortune, may go you or I.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Phil Ochs’ highest net worth is estimated to have been around $100,000 at the height of his career.
Children
Phil Ochs had one daughter, Meegan Lee Ochs, who was born in 1966.
Relevant Links
1. [Phil Ochs on Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phil_Ochs
2. [Phil Ochs Official Website](http://www.philochs.com/
5. [Phil Ochs Documentary on IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10945972/
