Woody Guthrie

Date of Birth: July 14, 1912

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: October 3, 1967

Biography

Woodrow Wilson “Woody” Guthrie was an American singer-songwriter, one of the most significant figures in American folk music. Born on July 14, 1912, in Okemah, Oklahoma, Guthrie’s music focused on themes of social justice, and he used his songs to address issues of poverty, inequality, and the struggles of the working class. During the Great Depression, Guthrie traveled across the United States, observing the plight of migrant workers and others impacted by economic hardship. These experiences deeply influenced his music, leading to the creation of some of his most famous songs, including “This Land Is Your Land,” “Pastures of Plenty,” “Deportee (Plane Wreck at Los Gatos),” and “Pretty Boy Floyd.” Guthrie was a prolific writer and performer, known for his distinctive voice and ability to capture the spirit of the American experience in his lyrics. He was also an advocate for labor unions and civil rights, often performing at rallies and protests. In the 1940s, Guthrie began to show symptoms of Huntington’s disease, a hereditary neurological disorder. Despite his declining health, he continued to perform and record music until he was no longer able. Guthrie spent his final years in hospitals, and he passed away on October 3, 1967, at the age of 55.

5 Interesting Facts about Woody Guthrie

1. Woody Guthrie wrote over 1,000 songs in his lifetime, many of which were never officially recorded.

2. His guitar famously bore the slogan, “This machine kills fascists.”

3. Guthrie was a significant influence on later musicians, including Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and Pete Seeger.

4. He wrote an autobiographical novel, “Bound for Glory,” which was published in 1943 and later adapted into a film.

5. Guthrie’s son, Arlo Guthrie, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a well-known folk musician himself.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Woody Guthrie

1. “This land is your land, this land is my land, from California to the New York island.”

2. “I hate a song that makes you think you’re no good. I hate a song that makes you think that you are just born to lose.”

3. “If you play more than two chords, you’re showing off.”

4. “Take it easy, but take it.”

5. “I ain’t a Communist necessarily, but I have been in the red all my life.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Woody Guthrie’s net worth was modest during his lifetime, as he often gave away much of what he earned. However, his estate has continued to earn royalties from his music and writings. The highest net worth achieved by his estate is estimated to be around $1 million.

Children

Woody Guthrie had eight children. His most famous child is Arlo Guthrie, a renowned folk musician known for his song “Alice’s Restaurant.” Other children include Joady, Nora, and Cathy, though Cathy tragically died in a fire at a young age. His children have continued to preserve and promote his legacy through the Woody Guthrie Foundation and archives.