Bonnie Dobson

Bonnie Dobson is a Canadian folk singer-songwriter who gained recognition for her contributions to the folk music revival of the 1960s. Here are some facts about her:

1. Early Career and Influences: Bonnie Dobson was born in Toronto, Canada, in 1940. She began her musical career as a teenager, performing in coffeehouses and folk clubs in Toronto's vibrant folk music scene. Dobson was influenced by traditional folk music, as well as the emerging protest and social justice songs of artists like Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie.

2. "Morning Dew": Dobson is perhaps best known for writing the song "Morning Dew", which became a folk standard and has been covered by numerous artists across various genres. Dobson penned "Morning Dew" in the early 1960s, drawing inspiration from the threat of nuclear war and the aftermath of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Her haunting rendition of the song, with its apocalyptic imagery and poignant lyrics, struck a chord with audiences and fellow musicians alike.

3. Folk Music Revival: During the folk music revival of the 1960s, Dobson was an integral part of the burgeoning folk scene in North America and the United Kingdom. She performed at iconic venues such as the Newport Folk Festival and the Mariposa Folk Festival, alongside legendary artists like Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Pete Seeger. Dobson's soulful voice, evocative songwriting, and commitment to social justice themes endeared her to audiences and cemented her place in the folk music canon.

4. Recording Career: In addition to her live performances, Bonnie Dobson released several albums throughout her career, showcasing her talent as both a singer and a songwriter. Her debut album, "At Folk City" (1962), featured traditional folk songs as well as original compositions like "Morning Dew". Dobson's subsequent albums, including "Dear Companion" (1965) and "Good Morning Rain" (1969), further demonstrated her versatility and enduring appeal as a folk artist.

5. Continued Influence: Despite experiencing periods of relative obscurity, Bonnie Dobson's music has continued to resonate with listeners over the years. Her songs have been covered by artists across genres, ranging from folk and blues to rock and punk. Dobson's impact on the folk music landscape, particularly through her iconic song "Morning Dew", endures as a testament to her talent and influence as a singer-songwriter.

In summary, Bonnie Dobson is a Canadian folk singer-songwriter whose contributions to the folk music revival of the 1960s have left an indelible mark on the genre. From her iconic song "Morning Dew" to her live performances and recorded albums, Dobson's music continues to inspire and captivate audiences, reaffirming her status as a folk music legend.