Philip David Ochs (pronounced /ˈoʊks/) (December 19, 1940 – April 9, 1976) … Read Full Bio ↴Philip David Ochs (pronounced /ˈoʊks/) (December 19, 1940 – April 9, 1976) was an American protest singer (or, as he preferred, a topical singer) and songwriter who was known for his sharp wit, sardonic humor, earnest humanism, political activism, insightful and alliterative lyrics, and haunting voice. He wrote hundreds of songs in the 1960s and released eight albums in his lifetime.

Ochs performed at many political events, including anti-Vietnam War and civil rights rallies, student events, and organized labor events over the course of his career, in addition to many concert appearances at such venues as New York City's Town Hall and Carnegie Hall. Politically, Ochs described himself as a "left social democrat" who became an "early revolutionary" after the protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago led to a police riot, which had a profound effect on his state of mind.

After years of prolific writing in the 1960s, Ochs's mental stability declined in the 1970s. He eventually succumbed to a number of problems including alcoholism, and took his own life in 1976.

Some of Ochs's major influences were Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, Bob Gibson, Faron Young, Merle Haggard, John Wayne, and John F. Kennedy. His best-known songs include "I Ain't Marching Anymore", "Changes", "Crucifixion", "Draft Dodger Rag", "Love Me I'm a Liberal", "Outside of a Small Circle of Friends", "Power and the Glory", "There but for Fortune", and "The War Is Over".

For a more thorough and interesting bio on Phil visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phil_Ochs

When I'm Gone
Phil Ochs Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴

There's no place in this world where I'll belong when I'm gone
And I won't know the right from the wrong when I'm gone
And you won't find me singin' on this song when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

And I won't feel the flowing of the time when I'm gone
All the pleasures of love will not be mine when I'm gone
My pen won't pour out a lyric line when I'm gone

So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

And I won't breathe the bracing air when I'm gone
And I can't even worry 'bout my cares when I'm gone
Won't be asked to do my share when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

And I won't be running from the rain when I'm gone
And I can't even suffer from the pain when I'm gone
Can't say who's to praise and who's to blame when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

Won't see the golden of the sun when I'm gone
And the evenings and the mornings will be one when I'm gone
Can't be singing louder than the guns when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

All my days won't be dances of delight when I'm gone
And the sands will be shifting from my sight when I'm gone
Can't add my name into the fight while I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

And I won't be laughing at the lies when I'm gone
And I can't question how or wh

Overall Meaning

y or when or what when I'm gone
Can't live proud enough to die when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here.

The music and lyrics of Phil Ochs's "When I'm Gone" are haunting and thought-provoking, speaking to the disappointment and uncertainty in life that we all experience at times. The song expresses the feeling of not belonging and not knowing the right path to take, filled with regret and the realization that there will always be things we don't get to do or experience. Ochs sings about the pleasures of love that he will miss, the lyric lines he will not write, and the bracing air he won't breathe. However, despite these losses, Ochs acknowledges that he must continue on and make the most of his life while he still can.

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: PHIL OCHS

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

TRACKS

Genre not found

Artist not found

Album not found

Search results not found

Song not found

Most interesting comments from YouTube:

Renzo

7y↑181

[Verse 1]
There's no place in this world where I'll belong when I'm gone
And I won't know the right from the wrong when I'm gone
And you won't find me singin' on this song when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

[Verse 2]
And I won't feel the flowing of the time when I'm gone
All the pleasures of love will not be mine when I'm gone
My pen won't pour a lyric line when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

[Verse 3]
And I won't breathe the bracing air when I'm gone
And I can't even worry 'bout my cares when I'm gone
Won't be asked to do my share when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

[Verse 4]
And I won't be running from the rain when I'm gone
And I can't even suffer from the pain when I'm gone
Can't say who's to praise and who's to blame when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

[Verse 5]
Won't see the golden of the sun when I'm gone
And the evenings and the mornings will be one when I'm gone
Can't be singing louder than the guns while I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

[Verse 6]
All my days won't be dances of delight when I'm gone
And the sands will be shifting from my sight when I'm gone
Can't add my name into the fight while I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

[Verse 7]
And I won't be laughing at the lies when I'm gone
And I can't question how or when or why when I'm gone
Can't live proud enough to die when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

[Outro]
There's no place in this world where I'll belong when I'm gone
And I won't know the right from the wrong when I'm gone
And you won't find me singin' on this song when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it, I guess I'll have to do it, guess I'll have to do it while I'm here

Marc Miller

6y↑3

Millionaires and paupers walk the hungry streets
Rich and poor companions of the restless beat
Strangers in a foreign land
Strike a match with trembling hand
Learn too much to ever understand
But nobody's buying flowers from the flower lady

Lover's quarrel, snarl away their happiness
Kissed crumble in a web of lonliness
It's written by the poison pen
Voices break before they bend
The door is slammed
It's over, once again
But nobody's buying flowers from the flower lady

Poets agonize, they cannot find the words
And the stone stares at the sculptor asks "are you absurd?"
The painter paints his brushes back
Through the canvas runs a crack
Portrait of the pain never answers back
But nobody's buying flowers from the flower lady

Soldiers, disillusioned, come home from the war
Sarcastic students tell them not to fight no more
And they argue through the night
Black is black and white is white
Walk away both knowing they are right
But nobody's buying flowers from the flower lady

Smoke dreams of escaping souls are drifting by
Dull the pain of living as they slowly die
Smiles change into a sneer
Washed away by whiskey tears
In the quicksand of their mind they disappear
Still nobody's buying flowers from the flower lady

Feeble, aged, people almost to their knees
Complain about the present using memories
Never found their pot of gold
Wrinkled hands pound weary holes
Each line screams out you're old, you're old, you're old
But nobody's buying flowers from the flower lady

And the flower lady hobbles home without a sale
Tattered shreds of petals leave a fading trail
Not a pause to hold a rose
Even she no longer knows
The lamp goes out the evening now is closed
And nobody's buying flowers from the flower lady

Ed Fram Music

2y↑3

A song I wrote in tribute …

Walk the hills
Breathe the beauty of his song
The words are Phil’s
Circling high where they belong …

They’ll turn on him fast,
like the hands of his broken clock.
Load them double quick, lock and stock.
Pick him out of that picket line;
and cloud his mind,
far worse than doing time.

But you go walk the hills
Breathe the beauty of his song
The words are Phil’s
Circling high where they belong …

The authorities knew all along
Even a broken clock ain’t always wrong
So take in your fill of wild oaks
As the truth slowly chokes

Walk the hills
Breathe the beauty of his song
The words are Phil’s
Circling high where they belong …

And how many oaks, they joked,
to make the Bureau’s file?
As it went round the bend,
for mile after mile;
taking with it Phil and his smile.

Walk the hills
Breathe the beauty of his song
The words are Phil’s
Circling high where they belong …

And to his tune, the trees softly sway
first this way and now that
But he can’t make it pay
So you’d better pass the hat

And walk the hills
Breathe the beauty of his song
The words are Phil’s
Circling high where they belong …

Yes, walk the hills
Breathe the beauty of his song
The words are Phil’s
Circling high where they belong …

Words by Ed Fram 1.1.22

Asadollah Keshavarzi

Lyrics
There's no place in this world where I'll belong when I'm gone
And I won't know the right from the wrong when I'm gone
And you won't find me singin' on this song when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here
And I won't feel the flowing of the time when I'm gone
All the pleasures of love will not be mine when I'm gone
My pen won't pour out a lyric line when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here
And I won't breathe the bracing air when I'm gone
And I can't even worry 'bout my cares when I'm gone
Won't be asked to do my share when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here
And I won't be running from the rain when I'm gone
And I can't even suffer from the pain when I'm gone
Can't say who's to praise and who's to blame when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here
Won't see the golden of the sun when I'm gone
And the evenings and the mornings will be one when I'm gone
Can't be singing louder than the guns when I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here
All my days won't be dances of delight when I'm gone
And the sands will be shifting from my sight when I'm gone
Can't add my name into the fight while I'm gone
So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here
And I won't be laughing at the lies when I'm gone
And I can't question how or wh

All comments from YouTube:

LUKE RJ

2y↑118

If only Phil knew we’d be listening to his music 60 years later…

Carroll Clark

48w↑2

That's exactly how I see it. Memento Mori - you may be gone tomorrow.

Jamie Brown

41w↑1

I was just thinking that. I wish he knew we aren’t giving up.

hairymcnipples

32w

I think he knew we would, sadly it's what killed him. I wish I could say he wouldn't make the same decision today - but I but he would.

Savina Zaytseva

11y↑110

Am I the only one who sees this as a wonderfully positive song? To me, it's not a musing on death, but a manifesto on the value of living the only life we're given, no matter how long or short it is. It's about doing the most good you can and living in the moment rather than living many years ahead for a future that may never come.

Terijian

1y↑1

thats the point of the song lol

Phil Veness

1y↑6

I agree but the sadness comes from the sadness of his early and tragic death.

Joao Nogueira

Just like me!

Bilbo Baggins

52w↑2

There is that but there is also an underpinning of depression and lack of self-value and esteem.

david Fishel

41w

No, you are certainly not the only one!

2 More Replies...

N Hawley

1y↑15

I'm 81 and I'll always miss him. I'm so thankful for his music.

Brega62

2y↑59

Dear Phil Ochs...you did it while you were here and the sincerity and message of your musical poetry lives on .

Matti Ellis

4y↑58

This song was played at a memorial for a friend today.
Rest easy, brother.

Brett Banta

1y↑2

Sorry to hear about your friend, man 😢

Donnie Friedman

4y↑43

How wonderful that Phil Ochs still has a following. We love his rich soulful voice, his sublime, exquisite and evocative lyrics. Gone far too soon, but still with us.

Edward Dalton

3y↑1

well said.

Donns Copman

2y↑47

At 69 I’m still listening to Phil Ochs, who I discovered in junior high at age 13-14. No one is like Phil or ever will be. I’ll be 70 in June. Still play Phil regularly.

Durango McMurphy

God bless you ...

James

50w

nice

Marie Garside

42w

I'm still listening to Phil Ochs at 75 years old.

Durango McMurphy

42w

@Marie Garside Way to go !

Eda Obey

3y↑56

As a fellow humanist Texan, he’s one of my heroes. I want them to play this at my funeral.❤️❤️😎😘🌒

David Oppenheim

2y↑1

Mine too. There’s still much for me to do - while I’m here - to justify playing it at my funeral.

DL

It's not really a funeral song, but to each their own

Ma La

8y↑575

Phil Ochs never sold out - and it cost him his sanity and, ultimately, his life. Although he is best known for his protest (topical) songs, he also wrote poetic songs of incredible beauty, such as CHANGES. One of my personal favorites is BACH, BEETHOVEN, MOZART AND ME, a hilarious satire on bourgeois life in Los Angeles in the mid-1960s.
Phil, you are gone but not forgotten. And you weren't paranoid; the FBI/CIA really did have a thick file on you.

D B Hunt

7y↑36

A true wordsmith who never turned a worthy cause down. I miss him dearly.

Oppothumbs M

6y↑16

"Changes" could be his best song. I like Santo Domingo, Celia, and the list is just very long. But I don't know how you say that his not selling out cost him his sanity? He was bipolar and didn't take meds or they didn't have better meds like they do today. He was having trouble writing and his vocal cords were cut. He was a sensitive guy .. even got a nose job.

Raymond Faith

6y↑1

Laurie Colson

I wonder if he and Mike Nesmith knew each other?

17 More Replies...

Margaret Stix

4y↑87

This song is just as much an anthem for right now as when it was written. Timeless beauty and important message.

Dean

Hello Margaret, How are you doing?

Clowd Walker

1y↑7

Just an absolutely stellar rendition of this song and was even more impressed when I heard the applause at the end, realizing it was done live!

Lawrence Hale

1y↑3

Phil Ochs was everything a folk singer should be. Great voice and great lyrics. Very sad he died at age 35.

gora hindu

3y↑30

You will never be gone Phil. Your music will always be with us.

Michael J.C. Taylor

9y↑234

Phil Ochs was not only a fine songwriter, but a poet extraordinaire whose words retain their urgency and meaning nearly five decades after he wrote them. So long as we have his recordings, Phil will always be with us!

Oppothumbs M

5y↑2

I just read the lyrics to Ringing of Revolution - amazing , borderline genius but on the top side of that borderline

sandi morris

4y↑1

Michael J.C. Taylor nice

sandi morris

Michael J.C. Taylor how are you doing

Peter Watson

41w↑3

This song is sensational. What a genius Phil Ochs was. I've got to learn it!!

Agave89

3y↑26

It's so sad when a beautiful artist/musician can't cope with the reality of life. As he created his poetry and songs, he was also writing about his ongoing turmoil in his own mind. Wish he endured and persevered but it was his choice to be gone. Phil Ochs will always be greatly missed in this life. A talented, gentle and unique soul ...

Mauri Westmoreland

2y↑5

I loved Phil, such talent and heart. He was versatile and every turn and change was a great experience. From 'outside of a small circle of friends' to 'pleasures of the harbor', what a joy to listen and experience in his music.

Betty Booper

11y↑5

We all must do something while we're here. RIP Phil and thanks for all the wonderful thoughts and words that will last forever..................

Dean

Hello Betty, How are you doing?

alancats

10y↑32

Haunting, poignant song, pure poetry. One of the greatest songs of all time.

Oppothumbs M

3y↑1

1/4 of his songs are cry-worthy and I am not a Leftist.

J White

1y↑6

I grew up listening to Phil in the late '60s and '70s. As an early teen, I cried when he died, but his music does live on. His messages, his humanity shine a beacon.

Dayne Allen Sheets

4y↑53

As on old 68-year-old folkie, I still get chills when I perform or listen to this song. I grew up loving and performing folk music and the first time I heard him in 1964 I was awestruck. I have had bipolar my whole life and at 24 attempted suicide on Friday, April 9, 1976. I found out the next day he had succeeded. It hit me hard that he was gone but also considering the coincidence.

Jim Hill

2y↑1

I'm a stranger, but I'm glad you didn't succeed.

ExelChannel

2y↑1

Glad you're still here.

Pete Axe

2y↑1

Never give up

Sonic Specialties LLC

Do not relent every day is a gift

john sosman

I never got to see him before he died but of course knew "changes" and "When I'm Gone" Went to Newport from '65 onward. Saw the ISB there but no Phil.

1 More Replies...

spiritjourney51

8y↑913

I discovered this man when I was 16 and I am now 61. Ioved him then and I love him now.

TTA Sage

8y↑16

I'm 15 and I'm love this song and idk why. I usually listen like EDM or trap but yeah

Hans Fecho

8y↑37

16 for me, Changes was the tune, 65 and still singing on his songs. Guess I'll have to do it now that he's gone.....

ThatOne GuyNextDoor

7y↑17

i discovered him with 14 because of one book of stephen king. i am 15 now and strange, i normally only listen to hard rock and heavy metal. strange...........

Archanarchist

7y↑9

listened to him for as long as i remember, the best ones never live long

skpgrn

6y↑4

I guess we'll be orphans together! Peace and Love, Skip

39 More Replies...

Tristan Scott

9y↑30

Phil possesses the best voice I have ever heard.. it gives me chills like crazy. I wish he was still here.

Nancy Benefiel

He was attacked in Africa, which severely damaged his voice. He couldn't live with it.

Bobby M

2y↑3

Stunningly beautiful in every way. Honestly, goosebumps! Phil Ochs, you were a genius--thank you for gifting us with your songs and many wonderful performances. You are not and will not be forgotten!

Renzo

7y↑181

Tarek Mohamed

5y↑3

هو

Miriam Collard

3y↑2

Thanks for this.

Josy Posy

2y↑1

Thanks for taking the time and effort. Much appreciated 🤩

Max RYDER

2y↑1

David Oppenheim

2y↑1

Thanks for laying this out

3 More Replies...

John Eldon

8y↑63

Shockingly prophetic. RIP, Phil, arguably the greatest folk song writer who ever lived.

Jim Hoffman

7y↑10

without a doubt

Maureen Devries

@Jim Hoffman I agree

Maureen Devries

My opinion has not changed one bit. I still really like Phil Ochs.

sandi morris

John E nice

sandi morris

John E how are you doing

1 More Replies...

John Sprung

9y↑95

This is a marvelous song. I don't know any singer/songwriter who doesn't wish he had written it. Thank God Phil did.

Oppothumbs M

3y↑1

Great song. The songs, melody and lyrics, were often genius and I could care less what he sang about though I wouldn't want him to be a KKK fan or a fascist like AOC is now. If she were in power what a horrible country we would have for a person who can't compromise on some unworkable creepy radical ideas. I just hope Phil was a lot more sensible if he were in power as writing songs about idealism is one thing but when your are in power (Secretary of Songwriters and Motion Pictures) you need to compromise. I'm talking to Biden sick friends who with the help of social media are more fascist than Trump. Phil's compassion, wit, sensitivity were always out in front for me. Though he could never be my friend - I'm not smart enough! I'm not as good-looking as he was! I can't be witty like Phil. See there are so many other privileges besides White Priv that matter so much and many other races have these too. If other races don't have some of these other privileges they might be set back but it's not really about skin color. OK it's somewhat about color but not nearly as much as we think. I know the Left doesn't know what I'm trying to say, but I'm gonna say it now! despite your righteousness and confusion as to why and what I am commenting. I'm not great at putting words together, but I am great at knowing crazy ideologies with good intentions and always bad outcomes.

David Oppenheim

Your message had real feeling and then went into “confusion land” pretty quick. Two things:
I deal with same malady or affliction as you. When I talk a lot to make a point usually is signal listeners/readers getting lost following my passion or enthusiasm to make my point clearly. I stop the message and ask, “Am I being clear?”

2) I disagree with your feeling, personally,

David Oppenheim

oh, I seem to have sent my “Reply” accidentally and prematurely. Anyway, #2) is that Trump is mean and insincere. He is a narcissist. Biden is none of those things

1 More Replies...

Ben H

4y↑3

Phil's songs are still utterly relevant. It's a massive shame that he's not still with us.
Rest in Power Phil - your songs will be sung for a long time to come.

pat munday

1y↑2

I play this song for students when we study Socrates. Nice that a folk song from the 60s can still touch young people today.

Sunday people

1y↑1

Germany: Just found the text I had written on a piece of paper when we played those songs by guitar & sang back in the 60s. Didn't know about the singer. Remembered feeling the same feeling I fell now! So my attitude towards life hasn't changed!❤❤❤

Kevin D

3y↑7

An angelic voice, a beatific heart, a sturdy conscience, a troubled mind and addicted body. It's no way to go through life, son. Thank you for trying as long as you did.

Irene Robinson

9y↑54

I loved him then, and still do now. Such an incredible songwriter.

Linda O'Malley Parker

9y↑2

Thank you Irene.

Linda O'Malley Parker

9y↑7

Beautiful Song. !

LeeMike233

12y

It is getting close to Phil"s 36 year anniversary and I can only say I miss you so much Phil. You are such an inspiration and lord only knows I wish you were still here to sing about the baloney that is going on today. Rest in peace Phil

Allen Berkowitz

9y↑17

A golden voice with the best vibrato I've ever heard.

sandi morris

Allen Berkowitz Nice how are you doing

Allen Berkowitz

4y↑1

@sandi morris //

sandi morris

Allen Berkowitz nice meeting with you Baba

1 More Replies...

Ralph Yehle

3y↑4

thinking about Phil this morning, listening to his music. Casting my mind back remembering. Phil we need you today more than ever. Peace brother.

Mad Dog

37w↑1

God, this man breaks my heart like nobody else ever has. I can't even say what he makes me feel.

Mad Dog

32w

His life was so tragic, you could not invent a more painful story. But he was so talented and beautiful, it is beyond belief how he could not have been more successful. He had it all, but somehow, it never came to fruition. I love him and his music. I only wish he had known how much he reached some of us.

Joy in HK

3y↑4

Truer words never spoken and inspiring. We do indeed have to do it while we're here. But this is such a difficult song to listen to. For me, maybe only once in ten years or so can I bear it. Tears still haven't stopped. Thanks for posting.

Fabienne Rime

3y↑3

Sublime j’adore cette chanson elle me ramène à de jolis souvenirs 🥰❤️

Glenn Christensen

1y↑1

Just discovered Phil at a tribute show by a performer named Zachary Stevenson well known for Buddy Holly story. His "Dead Ringer" show is phenomenal and his rendition of this song pays tribute to Phil in a special way. Thanks for introducing me to this song in particular Zachary.😀

Katherine Collingwood

4y↑5

A truly beautiful performance from an incredible man 🌻

Ali Subhi

4y↑3

Beautiful,haunting,and utterly brilliant. Phil Ochs truly was special.

Robert Berger

6y↑1

Phil Oaks was remarkable, a great American songwriter, balladeer and creative folk voice of intelligence, sensitivity and social conscience at a very young age. He was extremely influential in the far-too-few years he was with us. He is a voice for the ages.

Dan Sorkin

What a beautiful, powerful, poignant and touching song. He didn't have the greatest singing voice, but man he could write great songs. And his voice was mostly good enough.

Good Note DJs

11y↑1

Phil Ochs .... such a haunting voice, such haunting lyrics. So many wonderful songs, and so sad that not only is he gone, his life really went to pieces, a very sad tale.

LeeMike233

12y↑1

Phil lives on in his music. Relevance is always there, more so now.

phil newton

2y↑2

Superb balance between sustained effortless tone production and subtle accents giving shape and sense without the need for "guitar instrumentalism " [the usual strum [
The listeners curiosity is drawn to search beyond the cool voice to the emotional story -Genius

Tony2581

9y↑19

Thanks for the music and the passion, Phil. RIP.

bcg911

6y↑2

Phil, you're not gone! You...your music, and your love for us all, are still here!!!

Andrew Philbrick

46w↑1

Phil was a beautiful singer; very patriotic and poetic.

Ma La

11y

True, heartfelt words, John. I have been a social activist for 50 years and, frankly, I'm tired. Not burnt out, just tired.

heinrichvon

5y↑1

This is my favorite Phil Ochs song, and the only song by anybody that consistently moves me to the point of tears. Even then, the man was haunted by death, but he looked for meaning in the fight against all that wrong with America.

heinrichvon

Correction: "all that was wrong with America."

Abe

38w

This is one of the saddest songs that I’ve ever heard. Beautiful lyric, beautiful voice and guitar riff. So good that I run out of words

Groovy Guru

8y↑168

it's impossible for me to listen to this without tearing up

Bill Piechocki

5y↑8

@Groovy Guru, I'm sitting in a Burger King in Chicago, doin' just that... Would somebody get me a tissue...

Sticks

low t

Bill Piechocki

5y↑2

@Sticks ya' know, I was thinking about talking with my doctor about that... Thanks, pal.

Jill Bernstein

4y↑3

Me, too. Every single time. And it's one of my favorites.

Bill Piechocki

3y↑3

@Groovy Guru, me too Brother... Me too. Safe travels, friend.

4 More Replies...

Renzo

2y↑4

Those were amazing days...
“Bliss was it in that dawn to be alive, But to be young was very heaven!” Wordsworth

Eliz Naomi

3y↑3

This was sung at a friend's recent (zoom) memorial. So touching, so fitting and so wise...

Kathie Dunnings

37w↑1

I've been listening to Phil since he came over to UK to play at the Beaulieu folk featival in 1966. This is one of my favorites songs. I was so surprised, when at a gig, Theo Gilmore sung it and I think she was surprised to see me singing along!!

230968

2y↑2

This song is in everyone alive. Song of every living soul.

Bharat Bheesetti

I just wanted to comment on here because for the past six years, at every painful moment in life, I come back to this one. Today, I'm happy. Working towards something beautiful and just remembered this song. Your song has given me strength in sadness and joy, Phil. Thank you.

Family G

2y↑1

One of the great songs of all time

Funky Monkey

7y↑20

One of a handful of singers whose songs often bring me to tears.

elinor brecher

3y↑30

As I wrapped up what seems like 10 years of phone banking last evening, this timeless '60s protest song, by the tragically brilliant Phil Ochs, drifted into my head. I didn't do anything that a million other people did to try to save our democracy - and nowhere near what a million others have done - but I'm trying to feel like I did what I could while I'm here. Given the pandemic - and whatever apocalyptic mayhem Dear Leader is planning when he loses - who knows what the future holds. So to everyone who did it while we're still here: Thank you. Solidarity, community, kindness - these things must endure, no matter what.

Dean

3y↑1

Hello Elinor, How are you doing?

spiritjourney51

I loved your response and am just reading it now. I am Canadian and I know the last few years have been very trying for both countries, and now with this pandemic, the world. I am assuming you are American. Thank you for such a loving, kind and aware post. It means a lot to me to know there are phenomenal souls amongst us. Have a lovely day.

Michael Perrotta

2y↑1

How’s ur “Leader” doin’ and his “historic” vice president ( “Russia’s a big country; Ukraine’s a small country”..)...Talk about “apocalyptic mayhem”

Laura Hassler

5y↑1

somehow, it's comforting to know that there are people scattered all around the world, who cry when we hear this song, this voice

Dean

Hello Laura, How are you doing?

John Wilson

tx FOR POSTING THIS. I hadn't heard this great Phil Ochs song for many years. Great, profound song from a talent stilled far too early.

CONEJO DE MERCURIO

3y↑7

thanks to Spotify i found this great artist. i wonder why this beautiful song has only 1 million views? at least 5 millions....

TheWatsonGreen

7y↑1

Modern times are in desperate need of a voice like Phil's. Even just putting his old songs in the current context, they are incredibly powerful.

Leah Sebeslav

3y↑2

I discovered Phil ochs amongst my dad's many folk albums! I was about 15. I'm 45 now. I saw Kingston trio when I was 17 with my mom and dad in Toronto,and was the youngest there! I love ochs .there is special place i have in my heart n soul for him.

tim mason

Same! 15 years is sifting through my father's hippy records and found Phil Oches. Been a fan since

muljo836

12y↑1

Lovely, I can't stop listening to it. Perhaps 'RIP' is somewhat misdirected but I guess it is more for those of us who are still here. I love all the sixties sentiment but I can't stop wondering why there are so few voices now when there is so much to be yelling about. Nothing seems to be drowning out those guns...

ACandyColoredClown

To think that as the cultural Revolution of the 60s came to an end Phil took his own life puts this song into a new context. It was written in 66, and Phil, being a manic depressive, dedicated his short life to singing and being the true voice of a movement. He didn’t want to live, but felt it his moral obligation to keep going and sing these songs. He was a legend.

bigno53

13y↑1

This song always brings tears to my eyes. Phil was a great man. What a tragedy he had to leave us so soon. Rest in peace, friend.

Stephen Marcus

6y↑1

Last saw Phil in 1975 at the Chile concert at Madison Sq Garden venue. He looked like he was unraveling and he was. A wonderful singer songwriter from another era, Phil’s lyrics resound still today, more than ever

meltzerboy

6y↑1

I recall hearing Joan Baez sing this song, as her opening number no less, at the now-defunct Bottom Line in New York City. She sang it just as beautifully as Phil Ochs does, which surprised me since I didn't think anyone could replicate the Ochs' rendering. Thanks for posting this very sad but very beautiful piece.

aaron22887

i listen to this song a few times a month and it always brings a tear to my eye

Steve Rose

2y↑3

RIP Phil, we still remember you.

Firdaus Udwadia

8y↑11

This song is just beautiful, truly a stroke a genius!
The words are just exquisite.

Freddy Lubin

12y

There really was a time when people, like Phil Ochs, would actually take a stand. I saw him at demonstrations, and miss him.

serenaspeace22

13y↑1

There are plenty of versions of this very thoughtful song which are more musical, including one that closes the weekly folk music radio show over WFMT in Chicago. That version I believe to be the best. However, all that being said, it is always good to hear from the direct source. Phil Ochs placed himself in American history with this song. It took commitment and bravery to "do the right thing" back in the early days of the US civil rights movement.

Marc Miller

6y↑3

LeeMike233

12y

Thinking about you today Phil. You are such a real person, someone to identify with. Miss you and rest in peace.

Groovy Guru

8y↑11

Thanks Phil I really needed this great song today,Love and miss you RIP!

Darryl Hall

4y↑1

What a great song! It really "prioritizes" things for me

kp

7y↑48

Phil Ochs died 41 years ago today on April 9, 1976 at just 35 years old. WE MISS YOU PHIL!!! BUT THE MUSIC IS ETERNAL!!

Jimi Wilder

what caused his death at just 35 years old ???

Arley

@Jimi Wilder He sadly took his life...

mark dirigible

8y↑331

I knew Phil. He was a musical idol and a friend. I miss him.

Treebard

7y↑17

Sorry for your loss.

Marty Shames

7y↑38

I was 3 years old planting flowers in Peoples Park, Berkeley when this guy came over, got down on his hands and knees and started helping me. I remember Phil looking right at me and said, "The fragrance of the flower is fleeting, but the seeds we are planting here today will endure what is to come..." I shall never forget that day.....nor those eyes as he climbed that make-shift stage and gave Voice to a movement.
You shall always be with me Phil.

Richard Kasoff

6y↑11

I also new Phil. A better man than most. I lived; still live for his voice and his incredible guitar work. Left too soon.

jenskommnick

6y↑4

so moving; thank you so much, Marty, for sharing this with us...

David Weissman

Marty Shames - Steve Shames's son?

16 More Replies...

Judy Diamond

10y↑7

Thanks for not forgetting poor Phil. He's still worth listening to.

Dean

Hello Judy, How are you doing?

Barb McNichols

2y↑1

Been listening and loving this guy since the sixties...hope to meet up one more time in whatever afterlife exists.

Margaret Ross

2y↑1

And where Phil is still passing up paid gigs to do benefits.

Patrick

5y↑1

my grandpa played this song to our family when he thought he was going to die. thankfully he is still alive today battling brain cancer, skin cancer, hallucinations, and seizures. He somehow stays positive through it all.

Dee Smith

7y↑5

You left us so soon, Phil, but your songs have left indelible footprints even more today.

Patrick Flynn

4y↑1

Genius. Deserves more acclaim for his music. & songs .

Ann Raven

Inspiring song! I LOVE it!

David Smith

10y↑2

One of his finest songs. And this is a beautiful recording of it. In my mind he was the best of the singer/songwriters in the 60s and 70s (along with Jacques Brel!).

DrBillBushing

9y↑3

I had the good fortune to hear Phil Ochs play live in concert back in the mid 60s. The firs time was at the "People for Peace" concert in Boston back in 1966. His music continues to be among my favorite artistic works, especially songs like "Changes" and "When I'm Gone"

Fraser Thorburn

Hauntingly beautiful lyric, melody and voice––you've never left us, Phil!

Ed Fram Music

2y↑3

Margaret Ross

2y↑1

Beautiful tribute.

Ed Fram Music

2y↑1

Thank you Margaret. Most kind!

Durango McMurphy

I saw Ochs at the Great Southeastern Music Hall in Atlanta . He is the greatest under-rated Artist of our time . God Bless him .

jamie albert

37w↑1

I love listening to Phil Ochs,
but often times, it is too emotional for me,
knowing how tortured he was,
that he took his life
especially songs such as "when I'm Gone" are bittersweet,
but perhaps more bitter,
I pray that he is at peace.

El McMeen

9y↑8

He was a tremendous influence on my life and music in the 1960's.

Asadollah Keshavarzi

Mike

12y↑2

I can only imagine the one dislike for this video was an accident, I wasn't born in the 60's so I just found his music & I am very glad I did. His wit and soulfulness are impeccable.

RandallBay

11y

Thoughtful and wise musician. Thank God he chose to do it whilst he could!

Elizabeth Barrett

11y

Miss you, Phil. Remembering listening to you with friends on a rainy day. Rest peacefully, dear friend.

Christian Guignard

8y↑169

I have just discovered this marvelous singer, not in my habits to hear such an american voice and style. What can i say from my old France about him ? He is clearly the best american singer i ever heard . His voice is so close to his ideas and what a clever expression ! He seems to have a true and light soul, and far above any other folk singer. I do not only hear a voice in a time or influence, not a desperate wish to make a sound, but a luminous voice who holds in the deep of its cultural and humain heritage the memory of the english traditional masters.
Nevertheless, he gives us an original and unique vocal expression;
This is not an expression of troubles but it is Music !
I bought this week a nice double recording of his demo sessions, in 1963, free and bright, in a Vinyle manufacture, what a great pleasure, only music.....
I played the record on my old thorens, set up the amplifier and not more than Three seconds later, the message was understood; What else ?
Hope everyone will also enjoy this unusual and enigmatic record .
Also, Thanks for this beautiful post.

Christian Guignard

8y↑9

It' s always a pleasure to have good thoughts Together about artists who would have deserved to be more recognised...but somewhere, all beautiful persons usually walk on small and precious path, and discover or appreciate them, means having a bit the same sight and share a similar part of awareness !...so we are blessed anyway .....even if we are not so talented or differently gifted.

Christian Hesketh

8y↑4

Christian: He said what others were afraid to say at the time... and still are.

Gene Corrado

8y↑2

Welcome! Get:
Pleasures of the Harbor
All The News Thats Fit To Sing
Chords of Fame.
A deep, intelligent singer.

Christian Guignard

7y↑1

Who benefits...in fact ?

43 More Replies...

vicinatoostile2

1y↑3

I only discovered this immense artist today... I advise everyone, especially overseas, to do the same with some artists such as Luigi Tenco, Fabrizio De Andrè, the immense Georges Brassens, Leo Ferrè, Jacques Brel and many others...because the only thing that will survive the oblivion of our idiocy will not be the "limelight", the consumption of all forms of originality , diversity (the real one, not the one they want to impose on us and make us love by force), but the Art... the real Art... after all the Truth... a hug to everyone from poor Italy, because without art or part anymore.

Load More Comments...

More Comments

just now