With Michael Hurley’s passing this week at 83, we have lost one of our most adored and uncommon artists. An important American outsider artist, Hurley rose to prominence during the fertile folk revival scene of Greenwich Village in the 1960s. His singular sound combined traditional influences from bluegrass to freak-folk to blues, establishing him as one of the most innovative American musical voices.
With a career spanning over six decades, Hurley wrote and recorded original songs that showcased his eccentric ideas and stripped-back musical style. As a testament to his prolific nature as an artist, he released dozens of records. His newest full-length album, The Time of Foxgloves, was released in 2021. This release was a high point in his long discography, which is vast and eclectic.
The ripples of Hurley’s impact on the music industry went far past his own creative work. His younger peers, from Yo La Tengo to Cat Power, revered him. Indeed, they acknowledged him as one of their genre’s all-time great pioneers. His contributions to the genre became so influential that the New York Times named him the “Godfather of freak folk.” The honor cemented his legacy among the folk music community.
Even as one of the most legendary figures in his field, Hurley never let fame go to his head. He would tell people about his dream of being a famous musician. Deep down, he confessed that he never had the motivation to make that dream a reality. This general indifference towards success and willingness to follow his muse demonstrates the down-to-earth sensibilities of a creative, not an opportunist.
During his lifetime, in addition to being a composer and music educator, Hurley was a performing musician. He continued to engage with audiences until the end of his life, playing his final shows just days before his passing. His commitment to live performance spoke to his goal of bringing his music directly to the people.
Beyond his musical prowess, Hurley was an extraordinary artist. He expanded his creative skills to include fiddle and banjo, and he famously painted and illustrated many of his album covers. This interdisciplinary approach to art made it possible for him to consider his grand and multiple vision in multiple media.
Michael Hurley’s family remembers his legacy. They tagged him as the “Godfather of freak folk,” an appropriate tribute to his prolific half-century as a joyous purveyor of eccentric genius and compassionate wit. He alone was Snock. There is no other. This sincere tribute shines a light on the deep imprint he left on the lives of all who came to know him both personally and professionally.
His unique flair and irreverent attitude struck a chord with rock ’n’ roll lovers and artists of all kinds. Langhorne Slim expressed his sorrow on social media, saying, “So long Val Kilmer and Michael Hurley,” highlighting the loss felt throughout the artistic community.
Throughout his career, Hurley embraced the role of an outsider artist, often defying mainstream expectations while staying true to his roots. His songs, within each vulnerable lyric and raw melody, found moments of purity that rang true to the human experience.