Tom Paxton

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Folk singer Tom Paxton

Tom Paxton (born October 31, 1937) is an American folk singer-songwriter who has had a significant impact on the folk music genre. He is known for his insightful and often humorous lyrics, as well as his ability to address social and political issues through his music.

Early Life

Tom Paxton was born in Chicago, Illinois, and grew up in Bristow, Oklahoma. He developed an interest in music at an early age, learning to play the ukulele and later the guitar. Paxton attended the University of Oklahoma, where he studied drama and began performing in local clubs.

Career

Paxton moved to New York City in the early 1960s, where he became a prominent figure in the Greenwich Village folk scene. He signed with Elektra Records and released his debut album, Ramblin' Boy, in 1964. The album included some of his most famous songs, such as "The Last Thing on My Mind" and "Ramblin' Boy."

Throughout his career, Paxton has released numerous albums and written hundreds of songs. His music often addresses social and political issues, including civil rights, environmentalism, and war. Some of his notable songs include "Whose Garden Was This?", "What Did You Learn in School Today?", and "Peace Will Come."

Influence and Legacy

Tom Paxton's work has influenced many other musicians, including Bob Dylan, Judy Collins, and Pete Seeger. His songs have been covered by a wide range of artists, and he has received numerous awards for his contributions to music, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009.

Personal Life

Paxton married his wife, Midge, in 1963, and they have two daughters. He continues to perform and record music, and he remains an active voice in the folk music community.

Discography

• Ramblin' Boy (1964)
• Ain't That News! (1965)
• Outward Bound (1966)
• Morning Again (1968)
• The Things I Notice Now (1969)
• How Come the Sun (1971)
• Peace Will Come (1972)
• New Songs for Old Friends (1973)
• Something in My Life (1975)
• Heroes (1978)
• Up & Up (1979)
• The Paxton Report (1980)
• Bulletin (1983)
• One Million Lawyers and Other Disasters (1985)
• A Paxton Primer (1992)
• Live: For the Record (1996)
• Under American Skies (2001)
• Looking for the Moon (2002)
• Comedians & Angels (2008)
• Redemption Road (2015)

Awards and Honors

• Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2009)
• ASCAP Lifetime Achievement Award (2002)
• BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Lifetime Achievement Award (2002)

See Also

• Folk music
• Greenwich Village
• Elektra Records
• Bob Dylan
• Judy Collins
• Pete Seeger