Happy Traum, a prominent figure in the Greenwich Village folk scene and a collaborator with Bob Dylan, has passed away at the age of 86. Traum’s death was confirmed by his family, who announced that he died peacefully at his home in Woodstock, New York.
Traum was a talented musician, singer, and songwriter who played a significant role in the folk music revival of the 1960s. He was a member of the influential group the New World Singers, who were the first to cover Dylan’s iconic song “Blowin’ in the Wind.” Traum’s version of the song was released in 1963, a year before Dylan’s own recording.
Born in the Bronx, New York in 1938, Traum grew up surrounded by music. His father, a Ukrainian immigrant, played the mandolin and introduced Traum to traditional folk songs. Traum’s love for music only grew as he learned to play the guitar and banjo, and he soon became a regular performer in the Greenwich Village folk clubs.
In the early 1960s, Traum formed the New World Singers with his brother Artie and friend Gil Turner. The group quickly gained popularity in the folk scene, and their version of “Blowin’ in the Wind” became a hit. Traum’s smooth vocals and skilled guitar playing were a perfect match for the song, and it helped bring Dylan’s music to a wider audience.
Traum’s collaboration with Dylan continued when he joined the folk legend on his historic 1965 tour of England. He also played on Dylan’s album “Bringing It All Back Home” and was featured on the cover of the album, along with other members of the Greenwich Village folk scene.
In addition to his work with Dylan, Traum released several solo albums and collaborated with other notable musicians such as Pete Seeger, Phil Ochs, and Paul Butterfield. He also co-founded Homespun Tapes, a company that produces instructional videos for musicians.
Traum’s impact on the folk music world was immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to live on through his music. He will be remembered as a talented musician, a pioneer of the Greenwich Village folk scene, and a collaborator with one of the greatest songwriters of all time. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
