What does Woody Guthrie's Blues sound like?

A tapestry of traditional folk and storytelling, woven with poignant reflections on American struggles and resilience. Rooted in country and traditional folk music. Start with "Talking Columbia Blues".

Is Woody Guthrie's Blues a good place to start with Ramblin' Jack Elliott?

Yes, Woody Guthrie's Blues is recommended as a starting point for new Ramblin' Jack Elliott listeners. A tapestry of traditional folk and storytelling, woven with poignant reflections on American struggles and resilience. When Ramblin' Jack Elliott released Woody Guthrie's Blues in 1956, he was gaining recognition as a key figure in the folk revival scene. This album served as a tribute to his mentor, Woody Guthrie, and solidified Elliott's role in preserving and promoting American folk music traditions during a time when they were being revitalized.

Who is Woody Guthrie's Blues for?

Woody Guthrie's Blues works well if you're into narrative-driven storytelling sessions, thoughtful reflections on history and short bursts of lyrical wit.

How many songs are on Woody Guthrie's Blues?

Woody Guthrie's Blues has 10 tracks, running approximately 32 minutes.

Released 70 years ago

Woody Guthrie's Blues

Ramblin' Jack Elliott · 1956

32 min · 10 tracks · country music

A tapestry of traditional folk and storytelling, woven with poignant reflections on American struggles and resilience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Talking Columbia Blues Start here — This track opens the album with a narrative style that captures the essence of American discontent and wanderlust, setting the tone for the entire collection.
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Pretty Boy Floyd — Elliott’s rendition brings life to this iconic ballad about outlaw folklore, reflecting social injustices faced during the Great Depression.
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Ludlow Massacre — This haunting song recounts a tragic labor dispute, showcasing Elliott's ability to convey deep historical narratives through evocative storytelling.
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So Long It’s Been Good to Know You — A quintessential folk anthem of resilience, this track emphasizes themes of displacement and hope, representing a key aspect of Guthrie’s influence.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

narrative-driven storytelling sessions
thoughtful reflections on history
short bursts of lyrical wit
conversational tones and themes

Maybe skip if you

prefer high-energy performances
seek complex musical arrangements

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked a significant point in Elliott's career, showcasing his connection to Guthrie.
Themes: American discontent· Great Depression struggles· labor movement tragedy
Career context: When Ramblin' Jack Elliott released Woody Guthrie's Blues in 1956, he was gaining recognition as a key figure in the folk revival scene. This album served as a tribute to his mentor, Woody Guthrie, and solidified Elliott's role in preserving and promoting American folk music traditions during a time when they were being revitalized.
Stylistic neighbors: Woody Guthrie· Pete Seeger· John Prine