I would argue that Ed Sanders was a pioneering Beat, and as you note, a true Renaissance Man. I was (maybe still am?) fortunate enough to get to know him a little by moving to Woodstock. In true Sanders fashion, he wouldn't be interviewed for my book on the New York City music scene, claiming he had 50 documentary requests alone in front of him and only limited time left to complete his life work - to which I could not argue - but he spiritedly rallied round the cause of local schools when I called him on that issue instead and we developed a passing friendship that way instead. There is nothing that quite screams "I must be living in Woodstock" like shopping at the local health food store alongside the highly distinct Sanders. I believe there is a Fugs concert of some sort taking place almost as we speak, so his determination to keep on moving remains admirable. As much as any of the Beats, I believe he has stayed the course, true to his politics and his art, from Day 1 to today. I t doesn't surprise me that he is one of the only Beats you can confirm was at the March on Washington. Cheers!
Thanks, Tony. Some very interesting personal aspects to your response & glad you have established a kind of domestic connection with Ed Sanders. I've tried a few times to establish a dialogue with the man but, you're right, the demands on his time remain intense and he can't answer every request for interview! He has politely said similar things to me… And yes, the carousel called the Fugs continues to turn on stage and on record.
I would argue that Ed Sanders was a pioneering Beat, and as you note, a true Renaissance Man. I was (maybe still am?) fortunate enough to get to know him a little by moving to Woodstock. In true Sanders fashion, he wouldn't be interviewed for my book on the New York City music scene, claiming he had 50 documentary requests alone in front of him and only limited time left to complete his life work - to which I could not argue - but he spiritedly rallied round the cause of local schools when I called him on that issue instead and we developed a passing friendship that way instead. There is nothing that quite screams "I must be living in Woodstock" like shopping at the local health food store alongside the highly distinct Sanders. I believe there is a Fugs concert of some sort taking place almost as we speak, so his determination to keep on moving remains admirable. As much as any of the Beats, I believe he has stayed the course, true to his politics and his art, from Day 1 to today. I t doesn't surprise me that he is one of the only Beats you can confirm was at the March on Washington. Cheers!
Thanks, Tony. Some very interesting personal aspects to your response & glad you have established a kind of domestic connection with Ed Sanders. I've tried a few times to establish a dialogue with the man but, you're right, the demands on his time remain intense and he can't answer every request for interview! He has politely said similar things to me… And yes, the carousel called the Fugs continues to turn on stage and on record.