Phil Ochs ‎– All The News That’s Fit To Sing VG/VG+

“All the News That’s Fit to Sing” is the debut album of American folk singer-songwriter Phil Ochs, released in 1964. The album showcases Ochs’ early sound, deeply rooted in the folk music tradition, and is characterized by his distinctive voice, acoustic guitar, and socially conscious lyrics. The title, a play on the New York Times’ slogan “All the News That’s Fit to Print,” reflects Ochs’ penchant for writing songs that are topical and often politically charged.

The album contains songs that deal with significant social and political issues of the time, including war, civil rights, and labor struggles. Ochs, known for his sharp wit and incisive lyrics, uses his music as a platform for commentary on American society and politics. His songwriting on this album blends a journalist’s eye for detail with a folk musician’s sense of melody and tradition.

Some standout tracks on the album include “What Are You Fighting For,” a song that questions the motives behind war; “Talking Vietnam,” which offers a critical perspective on the Vietnam War; and “The Thresher,” a poignant reflection on a submarine disaster. These songs exemplify Ochs’ skill in using music as a means to challenge and provoke thought about contemporary issues.

The release of “All the News That’s Fit to Sing” in 1964 placed Phil Ochs at the forefront of the American folk music revival and protest movement. His debut album not only established him as a significant voice in the genre but also set the stage for his subsequent works, which continued to explore and address the pressing issues of his time.