Arlo Guthrie

Arlo Davy Guthrie (born July 10, 1947) is an American folk singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actor who became an icon of American folk music. Born to legendary folk singer Woody Guthrie and Marjorie Mazia Guthrie, Arlo inherited and expanded upon his father's tradition of socially conscious songwriting. His breakthrough hit 'Alice's Restaurant Massacree' (1967) became a cultural phenomenon, known for its novelty humor and subtle social commentary. The 18-minute song about a Thanksgiving dinner leading to arrest became an annual radio tradition and exemplified 1960s counterculture. Beyond this signature song, Guthrie recorded numerous albums demonstrating his folk credentials and vocal talents. He appeared in films including Martin Scorsese's 'Alice's Restaurant' (1969), which brought his music to cinema audiences. Guthrie has remained an active performer for decades, maintaining folk music's presence in popular culture. His career represents the bridge between his father Woody's depression-era folk activism and contemporary singer-songwriter traditions. Though sometimes overshadowed by his famous father's legacy, Arlo has established his own substantial artistic identity and has become an elder statesman of American folk music.