Phil Ochs Quotes

A collection of quotes by Phil Ochs.

Phil Ochs was an American singer-songwriter and political activist, born on December 19, 1940, in El Paso, Texas. He emerged as a prominent figure in the folk music scene of the 1960s, known for his powerful, socially charged lyrics and captivating performances. Inspired by the likes of Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, Ochs became a vital voice during a turbulent era in American history.

Ochs' music often intertwined with his activism, and he fearlessly used his platform to express his political views and advocate for social justice. His songs tackled a range of subjects, from civil rights and anti-war movements to the struggles of working-class Americans. With a strong sense of justice and keen observational skills, Ochs crafted anthems that connected with the discontented youth of his time, such as "I Ain't Marching Anymore" and "The War is Over."

Despite his talent, Ochs battled personal demons throughout his life, including depression and alcoholism. Over time, his music became more melancholic and introspective, reflecting his own internal struggles. Tragically, he took his own life on April 9, 1976, at the age of 35, leaving behind an enduring legacy as an influential folk singer and activist. Phil Ochs' unique fusion of music and politics continues to inspire generations of musicians and activists who seek to use their voices for social change.

It is wrong to expect a reward for your struggles. The rewar

It is wrong to expect a reward for your struggles. The reward is the act of struggle itself, not what you win. Even though you can't expect to defeat the absurdity of the world, you must make that attempt. That's morality, that's religion. That's art. That's life.

Phil Ochs


Here is a land full of power and glory Beauty that words can

Here is a land full of power and glory Beauty that words cannot recall Oh her power shall rest on the strength of her freedom Her glory shall rest on us all.

Phil Ochs

Beauty Power Strength Glory Rest

Images of innocence charge him go on But the decadence of de

Images of innocence charge him go on But the decadence of destiny is looking for a pawn To a nightmare of knowledge he opens up the gate And a blinding revelation is laid upon his plate That beneath the greatest love is a hurricane of hate And God help the critic of the dawn.

Phil Ochs

Love Innocence Help Destiny

Even though you can't expect to defeat the absurdity of the

Even though you can't expect to defeat the absurdity of the world, you must make that attempt. That's morality, that's religion. That's art. That's life.

Phil Ochs

Religion

And if there's any hope for America, it lies in a revolution

And if there's any hope for America, it lies in a revolution, and if there's any hope for a revolution in America, it lies in getting Elvis Presley to become Che Guevara.

Phil Ochs

Hope

There is an urgent need for Americans to look deeply into th

There is an urgent need for Americans to look deeply into themselves and their actions, and musical poetry is perhaps the most effective mirror available. Every newspaper headline is a potential song.

Phil Ochs

Poetry

In such ugly times, the only true protest is beauty.

In such ugly times, the only true protest is beauty.

Phil Ochs

Beauty