Dave Van Ronk, often affectionately known as the "Mayor of MacDougal Street," was an influential figure in the Greenwich Village folk music scene of the 1950s and 1960s. Born on June 30, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, Van Ronk's gritty voice and masterful guitar work made him a beloved and respected musician among his peers as well as a mentor to many aspiring artists. His repertoire ranged from traditional folk, blues, and jazz to the more contemporary songs of his time, allowing him to bridge generations and genres with his performances.

Although he never achieved the mainstream fame of some of his contemporaries, Dave Van Ronk's impact on the music world was profound. His 1963 album, "Inside Dave Van Ronk," became a template for the burgeoning folk revival, influencing Bob Dylan and many others. He continued to perform and record music throughout his life, leaving behind a rich discography including albums like "The Folkways Years, 1959-1961," "Sunday Street," and "Going Back To Brooklyn." His posthumously released album, "And the tin pan bended and the story ended…," offers a bittersweet testament to his storytelling and songcraft. Dave Van Ronk passed away on February 10, 2002, but his legacy continues to resonate through the weave of American folk music. His life and music were celebrated in the Coen Brothers' film "Inside Llewyn Davis," which was inspired by his memoir, "The Mayor of MacDougal Street."

Genres

American Folk Revival

Folk

Related Artists

Bob Dylan

Joan Baez

Ramblin' Jack Elliott

Pete Seeger

Odetta

Arlo Guthrie

Johnny Cash

Woody Guthrie

James Taylor

Phil Ochs

Joni Mitchell

John Prine

Latest Release

Dave Van Ronk Presents Peter and the Wolf

Dave Van Ronk

Album - 7 Tracks - Released June 19, 2022