Michael Hurley, the iconic outsider folk artist and singer-songwriter who rose to prominence in the vibrant Greenwich Village folk scene of the 1960s, has passed away at his home in Astoria, Oregon, at the age of 83. His family shared the news in a heartfelt statement, highlighting his legacy as the “Godfather of freak folk,” celebrating his unparalleled genius and distinctive style.
For over six decades, Hurley crafted original songs that blended elements of bluegrass, freak-folk, and blues, showcasing his flair for unique storytelling and minimalistic beauty. His album covers often featured playful imagery, such as a wolf devouring whoopie pies in the iconic 1994 release, Wolfways. Songs like “You’re a Dog; Don’t Talk to Me” and “What Made My Hamburger Disappear?” reflect his whimsical approach, which simultaneously addresses the profound aspects of life, encouraging listeners to appreciate the intricate details and broader narratives that shape existence.
Born just days before Christmas in 1941 in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Hurley began his musical journey as a preteen, nurturing his talent through summers filled with the sounds of Fats Waller and Jelly Roll Morton. He abandoned high school to immerse himself in music and creativity, hitchhiking with his guitar and producing fanzines. His turning point came when folklorist Fred Ramsey discovered him and helped bring his debut album to life. After overcoming a prolonged battle with mononucleosis, Hurley officially released First Songs in 1963 under Folkways, a label renowned for its influential artists like Woody Guthrie.
Expanding his repertoire beyond guitar, Hurley also became proficient with the fiddle and banjo while illustrating many of his own album covers. His friend Jesse Colin Young, a future member of The Youngbloods, played a pivotal role in propelling his music into wider recognition by releasing multiple albums, including Armchair Boogie and Hi Fi Snock Uptown, through his Raccoon imprint at Warner Bros.
In 1975, after signing with Rounder Records, Hurley released Have Moicy!, which earned both underground acclaim and critical success, paving the way for additional albums like 1976’s Long Journey and 1980’s Snockgrass. Over the years, he produced numerous records and garnered admiration from a new generation of artists, including Yo La Tengo, Cat Power, Lucinda Williams, and Calexico, solidifying his status as a significant influence in the music industry.
