Chords of Fame cover

Chords of Fame

Phil Ochs · 1976

90 min · 24 tracks · folk rock · baroque pop · protest song

A poignant blend of folk and baroque pop, echoing the struggles of a generation through vivid storytelling.

Why this album works

The album is notable for its critical reception, showcasing Ochs' powerful protest songs that resonated during a tumultuous era in American politics. Tracks like 'Here's to the State of Richard Nixon' highlight his sharp political commentary, contributing to the ongoing discourse of dissent in music during the mid-1970s.
Best for
dynamic storytelling with peaks reflective moments for deep thought engaging narratives in live performance
Context
Released in 1976, 'Chords of Fame' came at a time when Phil Ochs was navigating personal challenges and shifting musical landscapes. This album marked his return to recording after a brief hiatus, reflecting a more introspective phase in his career as he grappled with the changing political climate and his own artistic identity.
Stylistic neighbors
Kate Bush· Grup Yorum· Iwan Fals

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 I Ain't Marchin' Anymore (electric) Standout 2:47
  • 2 One More Parade 3:00
  • 3 Draft Dodger Rag 2:07
  • 4 Here's to the State of Richard Nixon (live) 2:19
  • 5 The Bells 3:00
  • 6 Bound for Glory 3:15
  • 7 Too Many Martyrs 2:46
  • 8 There but for Fortune 2:35
  • 9 I'm Going to Say It Now 2:46
  • 10 Santo Domingo 3:48
  • 11 Changes Standout 4:30
  • 12 Is There Anybody Here? 3:17
  • 13 Love Me, I'm a Liberal 3:46
  • 14 When I'm Gone 3:51

Disc 2

  • 1 Outside of a Small Circle of Friends 3:57
  • 2 Pleasures of the Harbor (live) 4:59
  • 3 Tape From California (live) 3:39
  • 4 Chords of Fame 3:32
  • 5 Crucifixion (live) 7:40
  • 6 The War Is Over 4:25
  • 7 Jim Dean of Indiana 5:02
  • 8 Power and the Glory 2:21
  • 9 Flower Lady 6:06
  • 10 No More Songs 4:33

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata