There But for Fortune: A Life of Phil Ochs

Sadly, this excellent biography of one of the sixties generation's great topical songwriters is out of print. Michael Schumacher writes a moving account of Ochs, who was haunted by his own personal demons and political enemies, such as the FBI, a federal agency sworn to protect us. Ochs' songs, including "Crucifixtion" - among the greatest songs of the Vietnam War era - are the heart and soul of a tremendous creative talent. Ochs' descent into mental illness is sad, yet Schumacher's account of it leaves us with meaning and encouragement to follow Ochs' social and political conscience.

A well-documented biography of one of the greatest topical song writers and singers ever. Easy-to-read account of Phil Ochs life. Includes background information on the circle of people that lived, travelled and performed with Phil Ochs. Also provides a look at the troubled era when Phil was at his peak. Chronicles the hipocrasy and ineptness with which certain parts of our own government tracked and harrassed people with contrary views.

I have been a devoted fan of Phil Ochs since the mid-1960's. I never knew or totally understood the depth of his committment to the forces of life or how this committment drove him into the depths of mental illness. Mr. Schumacher filled in the missing data about Phil that made him much more real to me. After finishing the book, I wept as I listened to his music and mourned for the loss of his courage and vision. Phil's music taught me to be a more sensitive human being, helping shape my political consciousness even to this day. I thank Mr. Schumacher for the effort he made to make Phil more real. My only criticism of the book lies in my disagreement with him as to the quality of some of Phil's more risky efforts at his art, i.e. productions of songs like "Crucifixion". Otherwise, this book is definitely a must read for anyone who wants to learn about the heart and mind of a social movement.

Imagine Phil Ochs in 1997 singing for the pope. It could never happen. He was the real thing. This book reads like a novel -- but it is as wonderful as DEATH OF A REBEL if not superior. If you love Phil's music, you must read this. If you don't know who Phil Ochs is -- you must read this -- Phil was the real thing. Bob Dylan is a total fraud.

This book was a revelation: it was as though the author was with Phil Ochs every minute of his life, and especially during the time when Ochs changed his identity, and lost his mind. The writing is clear; the book is edited down to eliminate useless details. It's as much as anyone needs to know about Ochs, and will keep the interest even of those people who have never heard Ochs' music. One of the best bios I've read. After finishing this book, I began reading Schumacher's bio of Allen Ginsberg, which is much more detailed, and just as good