John Cohen was born on February 8, 1932, in Queens, New York. He grew up in a musical family and developed a passion for folk music at a young age. Cohen's parents exposed him to a wide variety of music, which sparked his interest in exploring different genres and styles.
John Cohen was a talented guitarist who became known for his involvement in the folk music scene. He was a founding member of the New Lost City Ramblers, a group that played traditional Appalachian music and helped to revive interest in old-time music.
Throughout his career, Cohen collaborated with a variety of musicians and artists, including Bob Dylan. He documented Dylan's arrival in New York City and captured iconic photos of the legendary singer-songwriter.
In addition to his music career, John Cohen was also a talented photographer. He took photos of the beat generation writers and captured the spirit of the 1960s counterculture. His images have become iconic and are celebrated for their raw and authentic style.
One of Cohen's most notable achievements was recording a Peruvian wedding song that was included on the Voyager Golden Record. This record was attached to the Voyager spacecraft and sent into space as a representation of human culture and heritage.
John Cohen was married to Penny Seeger, the youngest member of the musical Seeger family. The couple shared a deep love for music and art, and their partnership was a source of inspiration for both of them.
John Cohen's contributions to music, photography, and cultural preservation have left a lasting impact on the creative world. His work continues to be celebrated and appreciated by fans and critics alike, and he remains a revered figure in the folk music community.
Cohen's dedication to preserving traditional music and documenting cultural history has helped to ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and enjoy the rich tapestry of American music and art.