Woody Guthrie

See also: Wilco

Album reviews

This Land Is Your Land: Asch Recordings #1 (Recommended)
Smithsonian Folkways (1999)
In many ways, Woody Guthrie has become the forgotten legend of the music industry. While the outpouring of "millennium" lists brought attention to a number of entertainers, little was paid to Guthrie, the man who laid the groundwork for virtually every musician since. Everyone from Bob Dylan to Billy Joel has paid homage to him, yet much of his best work is unfamiliar to the public.

Muleskinner Blues: Asch Recordings #2
Smithsonian Folkaways (1999)
While this album does not represent Guthrie's best work, it does provide some insight into his personal tastes. That, along with the sheer quality of the performances, makes Muleskinner Blues worth owning.

Hard Travelin': Asch Recordings #3
Smithsonian Folkaways (1999)
Woody Guthrie lyrics perfectly capture the turmoil of Depression-era American life, making them as fresh now as when he penned them. Hard Travelin', is an impeccable time capsule, and one with several lessons for today's listeners.