the AMP Issue 77

"The songs we sing invite the participation of the listener, who is central to finding a way of creating the life of the song at that listening. It's the difference between poetry and didactic writing. One tells you, 'This is it,' and the other says, 'Let's find this together."
—Peter Yarrow

In This Issue...  13 pages [about 19ish minutes to read) You'll Get... 

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• Recommends— Norman's Rare Guitars Documentary on Netflix

• the BIZ— Folk Songs (and Singers): Dead or Alive

• the Greatest Singer Songwriters— Peter, Paul and Mary

• Remembering— Peter Yarrow: May 31, 1938 - January 7, 2025

• PS from PS— Bringing the Music Back Home Where It Belongs

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Here’s the playlist

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• Recommends— Norman's Rare Guitars Documentary: A Must-Watch for Guitar Enthusiasts 

If you're a Singer Songwriter or a guitar lover, the documentary Norman's Rare Guitars is an absolute gem that deserves a spot on your must-watch list. This captivating film delves into the world of one of the most iconic guitar shops in the world, Norman's Rare Guitars, located in Tarzana, California. It's more than just a shop— it's a mecca for musicians, collectors, and vintage guitar aficionados.

Why It Strikes a Chord
Norman Harris, the charismatic owner of this legendary store, isn't just a guitar dealer; he's a storyteller, a historian, and a passionate advocate for the instrument that has shaped modern music. The documentary masterfully weaves together the shop's rich history, the magic of rare and vintage guitars, and the heartfelt connections they inspire. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at guitars with fascinating backstories— some played by music legends— and the community of musicians who frequent the store.

Highlights for Songwriters and Guitar Lovers

• Stories Behind the Strings: From 1950s Gibsons to rare Fenders, the guitars featured in the film seem to have lives of their own. Each instrument tells a story, often tied to iconic songs and artists, offering an inspiring glimpse into the music world's heritage. 

• Cameos and Guest Appearances: Keep your eyes peeled for appearances by some of the biggest names in music, like Joe Bonamassa, Jackson Browne, and Slash, who share their love for Norman's collection and its significance in their careers.

• Passion for Craftsmanship: The film celebrates not only the artistry of music but also the craftsmanship that goes into making these extraordinary instruments. 

Recommendation
Whether you're hunting for your next Songwriting muse, looking for inspiration in the history of music, or simply love geeking out over beautiful guitars, Norman's Rare Guitars is a treasure trove. It's a reminder of the profound connection between artists and their tools— a connection that can spark creativity and reignite a passion for music.

Where to Watch
The documentary is available on Netflix. Grab your guitar, your notebook, and maybe a cup of coffee, and immerse yourself in the world of Norman's Rare Guitars.

"This film isn't just about rare guitars— it's about the soul of music and the timeless relationship between musicians and their instruments. After watching, don't be surprised if you find yourself longing for a trip to Norman's shop or dreaming about your next six-string companion."
— New Music Lives™

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• the BIZ— Folk Songs (and Singers): Dead or Alive

The Evolution and Endurance of Folk Music in the Digital Age

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As folk artists in the digital age, you have more ways than ever to let those stories be known and to build sustainable careers while doing so.

"The times, they are a-changin" sang Bob Dylan in what became an anthem of the 1960s folk movement. Today, those words ring truer than ever, but perhaps not in the way many would expect. Folk music isn't dead— it's evolving, adapting, and finding new voices in unexpected places.

The New Face of Folk
When we think of folk music, images of acoustic guitars and protest songs might come to mind. But today's folk music has taken on new forms while keeping its soul intact. Modern artists like The Lumineers, Mumford & Sons, and First Aid Kit have proven that folk's storytelling tradition and authentic connection with audiences is very much alive and thriving.

But it goes deeper than that. Folk's influence can be heard in unexpected places: Taylor Swift's Betty and Cardigan carry clear folk storytelling traditions. Kendrick Lamar's vivid narratives of street life and social justice mirror folk's protest roots. Tyler Childers and Zach Bryan blend folk traditions with country music, creating authentic narratives that resonate with millions

Why Folk Still Matters
Folk music has always been about three things: Storytelling. Authenticity. And Community. In today's digital age, these elements are more valuable than ever. We live in a world hungry for genuine connection and real stories. Folk music, with its emphasis on narrative and truth-telling, fills this need perfectly.

The rise of platforms like TikTok has shown us that people crave authenticity. When a folk song goes viral, it's often because it strikes an emotional chord, tells a relatable story, or speaks truth to power— just as folk music has always done.

Building Your Folk Career with TrueFans
This is where the TrueFans concept becomes particularly powerful for folk artists. Folk music has always been about building community, and the TrueFans model is essentially a modern approach to this traditional idea. Here's how folk artists can leverage this "Back to the Future" approach:

1. Embrace Your Authenticity

• Share your Songwriting process
• Tell the stories behind your songs
• Don't be afraid to be vulnerable— folk music thrives on honesty

2. Build Your Community

• Host live and virtual house concerts
• Create Songwriting workshops
• Start a newsletter sharing your journey and inspirations
• Build a Patreon or similar platform for dedicated supporters

3. Connect Through Stories

• Use social media to share the narratives behind your songs
• Create content that shows your creative process
• Engage with fans about their interpretations of your songs

The SSDA (Single Specific Daily Action) for Folk Artists

Taking inspiration from the TrueFans Manifesto 2025, here's a focused approach for folk artists:

Choose ONE of these actions to do consistently:

• Write one verse of observational storytelling each day
• Record and share a one-minute snippet of a song in progress
• Share one story about your local community
• Respond personally to three fan messages
• Document one moment of your creative process

The Future is Folk
Folk music isn't dead— it's more alive than ever, just wearing different clothes. Today's folk artists have unprecedented opportunities to connect with their audiences, share their stories, and build sustainable careers through the TrueFans model.

As Amanda Palmer showed us, the art of asking and connecting directly with fans isn't just a strategy— it's a return to folk music's roots of community and shared experience. Whether you have 100 TrueFans or are aiming for 1,000 or more, the key is to remain authentic, tell true stories, and build genuine connections.

Final Thoughts
Folk music has always been about people singing their truths and finding others who resonate with those stories. In today's digital age, we have more tools than ever to find and connect with those who share our truths. The folk tradition isn't just alive and well— it's thriving, evolving, and ready for new voices to carry it forward.

Remember what Pete Seeger said: 

"The key to the future of the world is finding the optimistic stories and letting them be known." 

As folk artists in the digital age, you have more ways than ever to let those stories be known and to build sustainable careers while doing so.

The folk song isn't dead. It's alive in protest tweets and TikTok stories, in Instagram and Facebook Live sessions and Patreon communities. It's wherever people gather to share their truths through music. 

And that's everywhere.

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• The Greatest Singer Songwriters— Peter, Paul and Mary 

Voices That Defined a Generation

"Few artists have captured the soul of a movement and the hearts of a generation the way Peter, Paul & Mary did. Their harmonies weren't just beautiful— they were transformative, giving a voice to hope, justice, and change." 
— Rolling Stone Magazine

For over five decades, Peter, Paul & Mary stood as towering figures in American music, blending soaring harmonies with poignant messages that transcended their genre. From civil rights anthems to timeless ballads, their songs were the soundtracks to both personal moments and cultural revolutions. They weren't just Singers— they were storytellers, activists, and trailblazers who set the bar for what folk music could achieve.

A Legacy of Timeless Hits
From the moment their debut album hit the shelves in 1962, Peter, Paul & Mary's music captured listeners' hearts. Their eponymous debut featured Lemon Tree, If I Had a Hammer, and 500 Miles, earning widespread acclaim and solidifying their place in the burgeoning folk revival movement. The album reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts and remained there for an astounding seven weeks.

Of course, no discussion of Peter, Paul & Mary would be complete without mentioning Puff, the Magic Dragon, a whimsical, bittersweet tune that became a cultural touchstone. Released in 1963, the song resonated with both children and adults, demonstrating the trio's ability to connect with audiences across generations.

“They didn't just sing songs; they told stories that made you believe in something bigger.” 
— James Taylor 

Their other iconic hits, including Blowin' in the Wind and Leaving on a Jet Plane, showcased their knack for interpreting songs that spoke to universal themes of love, loss, and social justice. These tracks weren't just chart-toppers— they became anthems for an era.

Chart Topping Albums and Memorable Performances 
Peter, Paul & Mary's albums consistently broke records. Their second album, Moving, released in 1963, reached No. 2 on the Billboard charts, while In the Wind, released later that year, soared to No. 1. The latter included their rendition of Bob Dylan's Blowin' in the Wind, which won two Grammy Awards and cemented their reputation as musical pioneers.

“Peter, Paul & Mary's harmonies were like a warm embrace— they reminded us of what music could do, not just for the ears but for the soul.” 
— Carole King 

The trio's live performances were equally legendary. Their 1963 concert at the March on Washington, where they sang If I Had a Hammer, was a defining moment in both music and history. They performed at countless rallies, festivals, and arenas, bringing their message of peace and justice to millions.

Their 1986 reunion tour proved their timeless appeal, drawing crowds that spanned generations. Their ability to engage and inspire audiences decades after their debut was a testament to their enduring relevance.

Activism Through Song
Peter, Paul & Mary weren't content to simply sing about change— they actively pursued it. The trio's involvement in the civil rights movement was deeply personal. They marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., performed at Selma, and used their platform to amplify the voices of marginalized communities.

“Their music was the soundtrack of a revolution. They were the voice of a generation.” 
— Joan Baez 

Their activism extended beyond civil rights. They were outspoken opponents of the Vietnam War, environmental advocates, and champions of LGBTQ+ rights long before it became mainstream. Their ability to pair artistry with activism set a precedent for countless artists who followed in their footsteps.

Highs, Lows and Inspirations
While their public lives were marked by success, their personal stories added depth to their music. Mary Travers was a beacon of strength and resilience, battling leukemia later in life while continuing to inspire through her voice. Paul Stookey transitioned seamlessly between performing and pursuing a spiritual journey, crafting songs with a deeply introspective edge. Peter Yarrow brought a profound sense of hope and conviction to their work, driven by his passion for social causes and unwavering belief in the power of music to inspire change. Peter Yarrow's passion for social causes and his tireless advocacy for kindness and justice added a profound sense of purpose to his artistry, making him not just a musician but a messenger of hope.

Each member brought a unique perspective to the group. Their collective synergy—  grounded in mutual respect and shared purpose—  was the secret to their longevity.

Influence of Singer Songwriters 
The impact of Peter, Paul & Mary on other musicians is immeasurable. Their interpretations of Bob Dylan's songs helped catapult him to fame, while their innovative harmonies and arrangements influenced artists ranging from Joan Baez to Simon & Garfunkel.

“I owe so much of my career to their ability to bring folk music to the mainstream. They made us all believe in the power of a single voice.” 
— Bob Dylan 

Their commitment to authenticity and artistry has been cited by countless Singer Songwriters as a guiding light. As Bruce Springsteen once said, “They weren't just a band; they were a movement. Their music taught us that the personal is political and that the world could be changed with a song.”

A Legacy That Endures
Even after Mary Travers' passing in 2009, Peter, Paul & Mary's music continues to resonate. Their songs have been covered by artists across genres, and their influence can be heard in everything from protest anthems to introspective ballads.

“Few groups have ever achieved what Peter, Paul & Mary did. They made music with a purpose, and that purpose changed the world.” 
— Paul Simon 

Peter, Paul & Mary were more than a trio— they were a voice for justice, a call to action, and a reminder of the power of harmony in every sense of the word. Their legacy is not just in the music they created but in the hearts and minds they changed along the way.

in partnership with the Jim Parker Songwriter Series

• Remembering Peter Yarrow: A Voice for Change, Love, and Harmony

"Such times of crisis have inevitably brought 'music of conscience' to the fore and I expect we will be hearing more and more of it in the immediate future. When people feel empowered to come together and raise their voices, also will mean raising their voices in song as well."

This past week, the world said goodbye to Peter Yarrow, a towering figure in folk music and activism. Best known as a member of the legendary trio Peter, Paul and Mary, Peter's life was a testament to the power of music to inspire, heal, and unite. His gentle voice, compassionate heart, and unwavering dedication to justice leave an indelible mark on both the musical landscape and the world.

Peter’s Musical Legacy
As part of Peter, Paul and Mary, Peter Yarrow helped define the folk revival of the 1960s. The trio's harmonies became a soundtrack for a generation, amplifying the messages of love, peace, and social change. Peter's Songwriting contributions, most famously "Puff, the Magic Dragon," captured a sense of innocence and imagination, endearing him to listeners of all ages. Beyond the melodies, the group's repertoire— including protest anthems like "Blowin' in the Wind"— connected music to the deepest aspirations of the human spirit.

The trio's music wasn't just a collection of beautiful songs— it was a call to action. Whether addressing civil rights, the anti-war movement, or environmental concerns, Peter, Paul and Mary's music carried a sense of urgency and hope that remains as relevant today as it was over half a century ago.

A Voice of Justice
Peter Yarrow's life was inseparable from his activism. He believed that music could be a powerful tool for change, and he proved it time and again. From performing at the 1963 March on Washington alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to supporting anti-apartheid efforts and LGBTQ+ rights, Peter's commitment to justice was unwavering.

One of his most remarkable traits was his ability to blend artistry with activism. He didn't just sing about a better world— he worked tirelessly to create it. Through his initiative, Operation Respect, he championed kindness and anti-bullying efforts in schools, spreading the message that every voice matters and every person deserves respect.

Personal Insights
Those who knew Peter often spoke of his warmth, wit, and deep humanity. He had a gift for connecting with people, whether performing on the world's biggest stages or singing to a classroom of children. Peter often said, “Music has a way of reaching people's hearts in a way that words alone cannot.” This belief was the guiding light of his life's work.

In interviews, Peter was candid about his belief in the transformative power of music, often describing it as both a comfort and a call to arms. He understood that music could not only express emotions but also inspire people to act for the greater good.

A Legacy of Inspiration
Peter Yarrow's legacy is not just the songs he sang or the causes he championed but the spirit he embodied. His life reminds us of the incredible potential each of us has to make a difference. As listeners, we can carry his message forward by embracing the values he stood for— compassion, courage, and a commitment to justice.

Today, his music continues to resonate across generations, a reminder of the enduring power of song to create connection and change. Whether you're rediscovering "Puff, the Magic Dragon" or reflecting on the poignant harmonies of "If I Had a Hammer," Peter's voice continues to guide us toward a brighter future.

Reflection
As we mourn Peter Yarrow's passing, we celebrate the extraordinary life he lived. He was a troubadour of hope, a champion of love, and a voice for the voiceless. Though he has left this world, his spirit remains alive in every note, every lyric, and every heart he touched.

Rest in harmony, Peter Yarrow. Your light shines on in the music and in the love you inspired.

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• PS from PS—  Bringing the Music Back Home Where It Belongs

The most powerful social network isn't digital— it's the age-old connection between a singer, a song, and a listener ready to be moved.

I was just a teenager in the UK when I first discovered the raw power of a well-crafted song. Hearing Kris Kristofferson's Sunday Morning Coming Down through Johnny Cash's voice changed everything for me. That moment sparked a lifelong love affair with Singer Songwriters, those truth-tellers who carry on folk music's ancient tradition of turning life into song. While my friends were chasing the latest trends, I was diving deep into Van Morrison's Astral Weeks, letting its stream-of-consciousness poetry reshape my understanding of what songs could be. I was wearing out Tom Waits records, marveling at how he could turn the stories of society's outcasts into modern folk hymns that felt as vital as anything Woody Guthrie ever wrote.

But it wasn't just the established names that captured my heart. I'll never forget discovering Mark Germino's Rex Bob Lowenstein, a powerful tribute to every independent DJ who ever fought to keep real music alive on the airwaves. That song spoke directly to my own experience in pirate radio, where we battled to share authentic voices in a world increasingly dominated by commercial playlists.

When Bruce Springsteen released Nebraska, recording folk songs on a four-track cassette in his bedroom, it confirmed what I'd always believed: that the most powerful music often comes from the simplest place— one voice, one guitar, and an unflinching commitment to telling the truth. Bob Seger carried that same torch, especially in songs like Turn the Page, capturing the lonely reality of life on the road in a way that spoke to anyone who's ever felt like a stranger in their own life.

These Songwriters taught me that folk music isn't just a genre— it's a tradition of bearing witness, of giving voice to the voiceless, of creating community through shared stories. 

When I hear younger artists like Jason Isbell carrying this tradition forward, singing about addiction, recovery, and redemption with the same honesty that drew me to those first Kristofferson songs, I know this tradition is in good hands.

Today, in our world of carefully curated social media personas and artificial intelligence, we need these authentic voices more than ever. We need Songwriters who aren't afraid to show their scars, share their struggles, and remind us of our common humanity. In a time when technology promises connection but often delivers isolation, there's something revolutionary about sitting in a room with other humans, sharing the experience of a song being born right in front of us.

That's why I've dedicated my life to supporting Singer Songwriters, to creating spaces where their voices can be heard, where their stories can find the audiences they deserve. Every time I hear a new Singer Songwriter bearing their soul in an intimate venue, every time I see a room full of strangers become a community through the power of a song.

The world has changed dramatically since then, but the power of folk music remains constant. Whether it's coming through a smartphone or filling a living room, a well-crafted song still has the power to make us feel less alone, to help us make sense of our lives, to remind us of our shared humanity. In these complex times, we need these musical truth-tellers more than ever— these keepers of folk music's flame, these singers of life's simple, profound truths.

It's time for a change. Big time. Past time. Time to bring music back home, back to where it belongs— in our living rooms, in backyards, in our hearts, in our communities. 

Time to remember that the most powerful social network isn't digital— it's the age-old connection between a Singer, a song, and a listener ready to be moved.

Until we speak again...

Thanks for reading. Give us your feedback.

And PLEASE, if you've got any Singer Songwriter friends, pass the AMP on, because... It’s Time... for a Change. Big Time. Past Time...