'Singing Through the Hard Times: A Tribute to Utah Phillips'

Utah Phillips was one of the most remarkable contributors to the long history of topical song. Whether he was singing selections from the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) songbook or songs he wrote himself, he was dedicated to keeping alive the songs of the working class. After Phillips passed away last year, an all-star group of his friends, fans, and collaborators joined together to pay tribute on this excellent double-disc collection. (All proceeds benefit Utah's family and his still-remaining medical bills.)

A fitting tribute to a folk music legend

There's no question that Utah Phillips' music and influence was felt by countless singer-songwriters, so it makes perfect sense that folks as influential as Pete Seeger, Ani DiFranco, Emmylou Harris, Rosalie Sorrels, Tom Paxton, and others joined together to make this tribute record happen. But there are also a number of remarkable performances by artists most folks have never heard of.

Phillips' son Brendan's band Fast Rattler delivers a nice performance of "Paddy Welcome Back" (purchase/download). But, probably the greatest tribute on the whole album is the song that opens Disc One: Magpie, Dan Schatz, Emma's Revolution, Cathy Fink, Marcy Marxer and friends singing a hearty chorus of the title track (purcahse/download). Indeed, the song's lyrics perfectly capture what it was about Phillips' music that was so echoic and influential. Its refrain is also an excellent reflection of what has so driven the plight of the working class: "We're singing through the hard times / working for the good times ahead."

The Bottom Line

Not only does Singing Through the Hard Times pay tribute to the life and work of Utah Phillips, it also, by default, pays due tribute to the accomplishments and struggles of the working class, labor unions, and those who dedicate their lives to community service and social justice. These 39 songs present a history of working people, and would serve as an excellent introduction for folks just discovering that realm of American history through music.

There are children's songs, love songs, and rail riding songs. There's Ani DiFranco's terrific instrumental turn on "The International" (purchase/download), and several songs about work and human rights. As tribute albums go, Singing Through the Hard Times hits its mark. One can only imagine, Phillips would be delighted with this remarkable, historical collection being made in his honor.