Michael Hurley, known as the 'Godfather of freak folk', died at the age of 83. His family announced his passing, highlighting his eccentric genius and compassionate wit. Hurley made significant contributions to the music world over five decades, starting in the 1960s Greenwich Village scene. He released his debut album with Folkways and produced over 30 LPs, gaining a cult following with albums like 'Have Moicy!'. His unique style blended bluegrass, blues, and folk, leaving a profound impact on future generations of artists, including Lucinda Williams and others.
It is with a resounding sadness that the Hurley family announces the recent sudden passing of the inimitable Michael Hurley. The 'Godfather of freak folk' was, for a prolific half-century, the purveyor of an eccentric genius and compassionate wit.
Hurley honed his cracked perspective on bluegrass, blues and folk in the Greenwich Village folk scene in New York in the '60s, after producer Fred Ramsey picked him up on a hitchhiking ramble.
His songs had a stark, strange quality that could be both beautiful and surreal, showcasing his eclectic talent and distinctive style.
1976's 'Have Moicy!' became an underground cult favorite, and his rapidly expanding catalog would grow to more than 30 LPs that inspired many artists.
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