Watch Woody's Children 45th Anniversary Concert

In 2021, PBS aired a special concert event to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the popular folk music radio program, Woody's Children. The show, named after folk music legend Woody Guthrie, has been on the air since 1970, showcasing both established and emerging folk artists.

The concert featured a lineup of notable folk musicians, including many who had been guests on the show over the years. Hosted by Bob Sherman, the current host of Woody's Children, the show opened with a rousing performance by Pete Seeger's grandson, Tao Rodriguez-Seeger, who played a mix of old and new songs with his band. Other performers included Emma's Revolution, John Flynn, and the Kennedys, who all delivered heartfelt performances of original and traditional folk songs.

One of the highlights of the show was the appearance of Tom Chapin, brother of the late Harry Chapin, who was a frequent guest on Woody's Children in the 1970s. Chapin paid tribute to Sherman and the show, saying "Woody's Children was one of the only places where you could hear the real music of America, and that's why it's still important today."

Throughout the concert, Sherman provided insights into the history of the show and its impact on the folk music scene over the years. He shared stories about some of the show's most memorable guests, including Joan Baez, Tom Paxton, and Judy Collins.

Towards the end of the concert, the focus shifted to the future of folk music, with performances by Rising Appalachia and the duo of Robinson and Rohe. These younger artists showed how the spirit of Woody Guthrie lives on in a new generation of musicians.

The concert wrapped up with a group performance of "This Land is Your Land," Guthrie's iconic song that has become an anthem for social justice over the years. All of the performers, along with the audience, joined in singing the song's familiar chorus, creating a powerful moment of unity.

Overall, the Woody's Children 45th Anniversary Concert was a heartfelt tribute to a radio show that has played a significant role in preserving and promoting American folk music. With a mix of classic and contemporary artists, the concert demonstrated the enduring relevance of this music and its ability to inspire hope and change.