Remembering Michael Hurley: The Godfather of Freak Folk
Michael Hurley, an iconic figure in the world of music and an architect of the freak-folk movement, has passed away at the age of 83. His family announced his sudden death, expressing profound sorrow at the loss of a man they described as an “inimitable genius” with a distinctive artistic vision.
A Unique Voice in Music
Birthed in Pennsylvania, Hurley made his mark on the music scene during the vibrant Greenwich Village folk movement of the 1960s. His career was ignited by folklorist Fred Ramsey, who discovered him while he was hitchhiking. This serendipitous encounter led to the release of his debut album, First Songs, on the esteemed Folkways label in 1964, a platform known for its rich collection of American folk music.
Artistry Beyond Music
Michael Hurley’s eclectic talent extended beyond songwriting. He designed most of his album artwork, showcasing his artistic flair through charming illustrations. With a mastery of various instruments, including the banjo and fiddle, he crafted songs characterized by their surreal and whimsical nature. Tracks such as “Be Kind to Me” and “Valley of Tears” stand out for their haunting beauty, while others like “What Made My Hamburger Disappear?” exemplify his quirky style.
Influence and Legacy
Throughout his career, which spanned over five decades, Hurley’s work profoundly influenced a variety of contemporary artists. His albums, particularly Have Moicy!, released in 1976, garnered a dedicated underground following. He collaborated with and inspired artists across genres, from Lucinda Williams to Cat Power, who paid homage to him with her rendition of “Werewolf” from her 2003 album, You Are Free.
Notably, Hurley caught the attention of indie rock artists like Devendra Banhart, who released his work under the Gnomonsong label, and he made a recent appearance in the film Leave No Trace in 2018, where he performed “O My Stars.”
An Outsider’s Journey
In an interview with the Guardian in 2021, Hurley reflected on his identity as an outsider artist: “Calling me an outsider artist … yes, I think it’s apt. It’s taken me a long time to join the gang.” He preferred the intimacy of smaller gatherings to the rigamarole of traditional performance circuits, often choosing to play at casual parties and with friends over pursuing mainstream gigs.
A Final Chapter in Oregon
In his later years, Hurley resided in rural Oregon, where he continued to create music. His most recent album, The Time of the Foxgloves, was released in 2021. Even in his final days, he remained active in the music scene, performing at events such as the Big Ears Festival in Tennessee shortly before his passing.
Conclusion
Michael Hurley’s death marks a significant loss in the music community, with many mourning the departure of a creative spirit that uniquely blended whimsical storytelling with folk traditions. His resonant influence will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of musicians and fans alike.