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In this unforgettable conversation, folk music legend Judy Collins reflects on a remarkable career spanning more than six decades—one that has placed her at the heart of some of the most important musical moments of the 20th century.
Judy takes us back to her earliest musical memories, from rigorous classical piano training and a childhood surrounded by music, to discovering the folk songs that would ultimately change the course of her life. She shares stories of the 1960s folk revival, her friendships with artists like Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, Joni Mitchell, and Stephen Stills, and the instinct that allowed her to recognize songs that would become timeless classics.
We discuss the incredible origins of songs like “Suzanne,” “Both Sides Now,” and “Amazing Grace,” including how Judy’s iconic recording helped bring the centuries-old hymn back into the cultural conversation... and how this was the only time she was "paid" for performing a song she didn't write. She also opens up about the life-changing vocal injury that nearly ended her career, her journey to recovery and sobriety, and the resilience that has kept her performing for generations of audiences.
Along the way, Judy reflects on the power of music to heal, to protest, to preserve history, and to connect people across generations.
This is a conversation about artistry, intuition, perseverance, and the enduring magic of a great song.
By David J. MaloneyIn this unforgettable conversation, folk music legend Judy Collins reflects on a remarkable career spanning more than six decades—one that has placed her at the heart of some of the most important musical moments of the 20th century.
Judy takes us back to her earliest musical memories, from rigorous classical piano training and a childhood surrounded by music, to discovering the folk songs that would ultimately change the course of her life. She shares stories of the 1960s folk revival, her friendships with artists like Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, Joni Mitchell, and Stephen Stills, and the instinct that allowed her to recognize songs that would become timeless classics.
We discuss the incredible origins of songs like “Suzanne,” “Both Sides Now,” and “Amazing Grace,” including how Judy’s iconic recording helped bring the centuries-old hymn back into the cultural conversation... and how this was the only time she was "paid" for performing a song she didn't write. She also opens up about the life-changing vocal injury that nearly ended her career, her journey to recovery and sobriety, and the resilience that has kept her performing for generations of audiences.
Along the way, Judy reflects on the power of music to heal, to protest, to preserve history, and to connect people across generations.
This is a conversation about artistry, intuition, perseverance, and the enduring magic of a great song.