Altsounds - Arlo Guthrie - Dancehouse Theatre, Manchester

Brooklyn born Arlo Guthrie is the eldest son of legendary folk pioneer Woody Guthrie, and professional dancer Marjorie Mazia Guthrie. He grew up surrounded by creatives, dancers, musicians and philosophers: Pete Seeger, Ronnie Gilbert, The Weavers, Leadbelly, Cisco Houston, Ramblin' Jack Elliott, Sonny Terry and Brownie McGee, all of whom were significant influences on Arlo's musical career.

Over the last four decades Arlo has toured throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Australia winning a broad and dedicated following. In addition to being an accomplished musician?playing the piano, six and twelve-string guitar, harmonica and a dozen other instruments?Arlo is a natural-born storyteller whose hilarious tales and anecdotes are woven seamlessly into his performances.

He took to the stage for the first time on his own in 1961 and has never looked back since. Arlo has toured all over the world, playing as far afield as Japan. Woodstock Music Festival in 1969, marked the end to those hectic, never ending solo tours and although he continued to perform, he rarely played solo.

Alongside his music career, Arlo has launched his own record label, Rising Son Records and set up The Guthrie Center and The Guthrie Foundation. Both of which are not for profit organisations dedicated to providing a wide range of local and international services. He also raised over $100,00 to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Now, Arlo continues on alone - rambling through songs and tales.

Quote:

Guthrie is philosophical in a naturally funny and folksy way and, as with great storytellers such as Will Rogers and even his own father, he always manages to pluck a gem from a lot of dirt. - The Los Angeles Times

Some people think a folksinger is someone who just sings their own songs. That?s a shame. It?s like being of the tradition, rather than in it. I?ve taught myself to make any song I like my own. - Arlo Guthrie

Photograph by Bettman/CORBIS