Tom Paxton

Tom Paxton
Kingkongphoto & www.celebrity-photos.com from Laurel Maryland, USA · CC BY-SA 2.0 · source
Name	Tom Paxton
Birth date	October 31, 1937
Birth place	Chicago, Illinois
Occupation	Singer, songwriter
Genre	Folk music

Tom Paxton is a renowned American singer and songwriter, known for his poignant and thought-provoking lyrics, often focusing on social issues and storytelling. With a career spanning over six decades, Paxton has been influenced by notable figures such as Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, and Bob Dylan. His music has been covered by various artists, including Joan Baez, Judy Collins, and Peter, Paul and Mary. Paxton's work has also been associated with the American folk music revival of the 1960s, alongside other prominent musicians like Dave Van Ronk and Phil Ochs.

Early Life and Career

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Paxton grew up in Oklahoma and later moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. He began performing in the Greenwich Village folk scene, where he befriended other emerging artists like Gerde's Folk City regulars Dave Van Ronk and Bob Dylan. Paxton's early work was influenced by the Appalachian folk music tradition, as well as the blues and country music of artists like Hank Williams and Lead Belly. He released his debut album, Ramblin' Boy, in 1964, which featured songs like The Last Thing on My Mind and Ramblin' Boy, showcasing his unique blend of folk, rock, and social commentary.

Music Style and Influences

Paxton's music style is characterized by his distinctive voice, acoustic guitar playing, and thought-provoking lyrics, often addressing social issues like civil rights, war, and environmentalism. His influences range from traditional American folk music to rock and roll and blues, with artists like Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, and Bob Dylan being significant inspirations. Paxton has also been compared to other notable singer-songwriters like John Prine, Steve Goodman, and Arlo Guthrie, known for their storytelling and social commentary. His music has been featured in various films and documentaries, including Woodstock and The Weavers: Wasn't That a Time!, highlighting his connection to the American folk music revival and the counterculture movement.

Discography

Paxton has released numerous albums throughout his career, including Ramblin' Boy (1964), Ain't That News (1965), and Outward Bound (1966), which feature songs like Leaving London and What Did You Learn in School Today?. His later works, such as New Songs for Old Friends (1973) and Up & Up (1979), demonstrate his continued commitment to social commentary and storytelling. Paxton has also collaborated with other artists, including Pete Seeger and John McCutcheon, on albums like To Hear the Angels Sing (1997) and Comedians & Angels (2000). His music has been recognized by organizations like the Grammy Awards and the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, with nominations for albums like Live from Mountain Stage (1991) and Under American Skies (2001).

Awards and Recognition

Paxton has received numerous awards and nominations for his contributions to music, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009. He has been recognized by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences for his work on albums like The Compleat Tom Paxton (1971) and Even a Gray Day (1983). Paxton has also been honored by the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) for his songwriting, with awards for songs like The Last Thing on My Mind and Bottle of Wine. His music has been featured in various films and documentaries, including The Weavers: Wasn't That a Time! and Pete Seeger: The Power of Song, highlighting his influence on the American folk music revival and the counterculture movement.

Personal Life

Paxton has been married to his wife, Midge Paxton, since 1963, and they have two daughters, Jennifer Paxton and Katy Paxton. He currently resides in Alexandria, Virginia, and continues to perform and record music, with recent albums like Comedians & Angels (2000) and Outward Bound (2006) featuring songs like The First Song Is the Worst and My Favorite Spring. Paxton has been involved in various charitable organizations, including the Clearwater Festival and the Woody Guthrie Foundation, which aim to promote environmental awareness and support social justice causes. His legacy as a singer-songwriter and social commentator continues to inspire new generations of musicians, including artists like Ani DiFranco, Indigo Girls, and Dar Williams.