Remembering Michael Hurley: The Outsider Folk Pioneer Who Passed at 83

The world of folk music has lost one of its most unique voices. Michael Hurley, the legendary outsider folk pioneer, passed away at 83. He was known for his eccentric approach to music, and Hurley’s legacy has inspired generations of artists. From Lucinda Williams to Devendra Banhart, his influence can be felt across the music world. As we remember Michael Hurley, it’s clear that his impact on folk music is immeasurable.

Michael Hurley’s Influence on Folk Music

Born in 1941, Michael Hurley was a key figure in the outsider folk and freak folk movements that emerged in the 1960s. His music stood out for its quirky, offbeat style. His songs often blended folk with elements of blues, country, and a touch of the surreal. Hurley’s songs were filled with humor, wit, and an undeniable charm. He had a way of making the strange feel familiar and the familiar feel weird.

Hurley’s debut album, First Songs, was released in 1964. This marked the beginning of a prolific career that spanned over 30 albums. Throughout his career, Hurley’s music continued to evolve. His albums, like Armchair Boogie, Hi Fi Snock Uptown, and Have Moicy!, became cult favorites. The 1976 album Have Moicy! especially stood out, becoming an underground classic that would inspire many.

The Songs and Albums That Defined His Career

Michael Hurley’s music wasn’t just about lyrics and melodies. His songs told stories, often whimsical or dark, but always with a sense of humor. Some of his most beloved tracks include “The Werewolf,” “O My Stars,” and “Twilight Zone.” These songs captured his quirky view of the world, blending a mix of folk, blues, and storytelling in a way that only Hurley could.

His album Have Moicy! is perhaps his most iconic. Released in 1976, it became an underground favorite, beloved by fans for its authenticity and unpolished charm. The album is a snapshot of Hurley’s style: playful, offbeat, and uniquely his own.

Michael Hurley’s Lasting Legacy

Even as Hurley aged, his passion for music never waned. In 2021, he released The Time of the Foxgloves, his last album. Hurley continued to write and perform in his later years. Just days before his passing, he performed at the Big Ears festival in Tennessee, showing that his energy and creativity never slowed down.

Throughout his career, Hurley remained a beloved figure in the music world. He was known for his distinctive voice, creative approach to folk music, and ability to create art that was as unconventional as it was heartfelt. His music continues to inspire artists today.

Michael Hurley’s Artistic Vision

Michael Hurley was not just a musician but also a visual artist. He created many of his album covers, hand-illustrating the artwork accompanying his music. His artwork often reflected the same quirky, offbeat sensibility that characterized his songs. This connection between his music and visual art made him a true multidisciplinary artist.

His work was beloved not only by his fans but also by his peers. Musicians like Cat Power, Lucinda Williams, and Devendra Banhart have cited Hurley as an influence. Cat Power even covered Hurley’s song “The Werewolf” on her 2003 album You Are Free. Banhart went further, releasing several of Hurley’s albums through his Gnomonsong label. Hurley’s impact on these artists speaks to the timeless nature of his music.

Tributes From Fellow Musicians

Following Michael Hurley’s passing, many musicians took to social media to express their grief and share their memories of him. The Walkmen’s Hamilton Leithauser shared a link to Hurley’s song “I Paint A Design,” while Langhorne Slim paid tribute to Hurley and the late actor Val Kilmer, calling both of them “Kings of cool.”

Ryley Walker, another artist inspired by Hurley, shared a poignant photo of himself with Hurley, reflecting on their friendship and the influence Hurley had on him. More Eaze, who had seen Hurley perform just days before his death, described the experience as deeply emotional, stating that Hurley’s performance left him in tears.