John Fahey
USA- Early Life and Influences
- Early Recordings and the Blind Thomas Alias
- Philosophy and Hippie Influence
- Experimental Albums and Commercial Success
- Personal Struggles and Health Issues
- Legacy and Tribute
Early Life and Influences
Born in Washington, D.C. on February 28, 1939, John Fahey's musical journey began at a young age. His parents exposed him to piano music, and a chance encounter with Bill Monroe's rendition of "Blue Yodel No. 7" on the radio sparked his love for music. In 1952, Fahey acquired his first guitar for $17 and initially pursued bluegrass and country music. However, after hearing Blind Willie Johnson's "Praise God I'm Satisfied," he developed an enduring passion for the blues. Fahey's eclectic style emerged as he blended contemporary and classical techniques, drawing inspiration from Charles Ives and Béla Bartók.
Early Recordings and the Blind Thomas Alias
In 1958, Fahey recorded his first record, "Blind Thomas," under the pseudonym Blind Thomas, with the assistance of Joe Bussard and his studio. Unable to secure a professional recording contract, Fahey independently released the album, consisting of 100 copies. Side one featured John Fahey, while side two was titled "Death of Blind Joe." Fahey personally distributed the records to music stores and record labels.
Philosophy and Hippie Influence
After graduating from American University with a degree in philosophy and religion, Fahey moved to California in 1963 and enrolled at the University of California, Berkeley, where he continued his philosophical studies. However, his focus gradually shifted towards music, and he performed at student concerts, embracing the popular "hippie" music of the time. In 1964, Fahey relocated to Los Angeles, where he studied folklore with D.K. Wilgus and wrote his master's thesis on the music of Charley Patton.
Experimental Albums and Commercial Success
In 1963, Fahey released his second album, "Death Chants, Breakdowns, and Military Waltzes," which featured interpretations of traditional folk songs. The release garnered critical acclaim, establishing Fahey as a unique and influential musician. In the mid-1960s, he released "Requia" and "The Yellow Princess," albums that showcased his innovative blend of Tibetan chanting, gamelan music, bird songs, and the sounds of the natural world.
Personal Struggles and Health Issues
By the mid-1970s, Fahey's life was marred by alcoholism. He was forced to sell his house and his marriage dissolved. After a second unsuccessful marriage, Fahey relocated to Salem, Oregon, and entered a third marriage. However, his health declined, exacerbated by diabetes, and his musical career suffered as he struggled to maintain consistency. His final album, "Womblife," was released in 1990.
Legacy and Tribute
John Fahey passed away on February 22, 2001, at a Salem hospital. In 2006, a tribute album entitled "Revenge of Blind Joe Death" was released, featuring renowned musicians performing Fahey's original compositions. Fahey's unconventional and visionary approach to music continues to inspire and influence generations of guitarists and musicians.
