When it comes to folk music, John Denver might be one of the most iconic names one could ever think of. His name alone rings a bell in almost every household and radio station. In fact, he was not just a pure folk singer. For over 35 years in the music industry, Denver crossed over different genres of music. He also took his musical career into Country, pop, Western, and even rock (folk and soft) music. As a result, fans across the world and the world loved him even more.
With his career that spanned for over three decades, Denver produced some of the most iconic songs ever heard on the radio. His soft yet poignant voice won the hearts of many. And, his songs are a poem to the soul.
It has already been 21 years since his passing, but more importantly, his legacy is his voice that will forever exist. Hence, with much respect and dedication, we relive John Denver’s sound and legacy, as well as his roots in folk and country music.
The Birth of a Legend
Born on December 31, 1943, Henry John Deutschendorf Jr., more popularly known as John Denver, grew up in Roswell, New Mexico. He was the eldest son of Captain Henry John “Dutch” Deutschendorf and Erma Louise Swope. His father was a United States Army Air Force pilot stationed at Roswell AAF. Growing up, Denver experienced a well-disciplined childhood as his father was a member of the military where time is as precious as gold. In fact, this was revealed in Denver’s autobiography, Take Me Home. He described his life as the eldest son of a family shaped by a stern father who could not show his love for his children.