Woody Guthrie remains a towering figure in American music, his songs resonating with generations thanks to their poignant lyrics and powerful social commentary. Now, a new book, Woody Guthrie: Songs and Art • Words and Wisdom, offers an unprecedented glimpse into his creative process and enduring legacy, making it an essential addition for anyone interested in Woody Guthrie Songs.
Curated by Guthrie’s daughter, Nora Guthrie, and esteemed music historian Robert Santelli, this stunning collection provides readers with intimate access to Woody’s vast archives. Within its pages, you’ll discover over 90 original handwritten and typed lyrics to some of his most iconic songs. Imagine seeing the raw, unedited versions of classics like “Oklahoma Hills,” “Pretty Boy Floyd,” “Deportee,” “The Ballad of Harriet Tubman,” “All You Fascists,” “California Stars,” “I’m Shipping Up To Boston,” “Joe DiMaggio,” and “Riding In My Car” – offering a unique perspective on the evolution of woody guthrie songs.
But this book is more than just a songbook. It delves deeper into Guthrie’s world through illustrated pages from his personal journals and notebooks. These glimpses reveal the people he encountered, the ideas that sparked his creativity, and the social issues he passionately confronted. Furthermore, the book includes private letters to friends, family, and fellow artists, shedding light on his inner thoughts, his creative deliberations, and his personal joys. Complementing these personal writings are photographs from Woody’s collection, capturing moments from his military service, performances on the road, collaborations with other musicians, and intimate family snapshots.
“I opened this book with modest expectations, and closed it with a transformed understanding of who Woody Guthrie was. Edited with love and precision by Guthrie’s daughter Nora and scholar Robert Santelli, Songs and Art * Words and Wisdom takes a 360-degree look at a fascinating American life and a profoundly influential artist.” – Jay Gabler / The Current
Woody Guthrie: Songs and Art • Words and Wisdom is not just a biography; it’s an immersive experience into the heart and mind of a true American icon. It’s a celebration of his art, his words, and his enduring wisdom, reminding us why woody guthrie songs continue to matter today. Published by Chronicle Books, this hardcover, full-color, 340-page volume is available now, offering a profound exploration of a legendary artist’s life and work.
