American Masters

Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune

Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune is a tribute to an unlikely American hero whose music is as relevant today as it was in the 1960s. Phil Ochs was moved by the conviction that he and his music would change the world. Unyielding in his political principals and unbending in his artistic vision, Ochs tirelessly fought for peace and justice throughout his short life (12/19/1940 - 4/9/1976).

Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune

2m 11s

American Masters opens its 26th season with the biography of a conflicted troubadour who, with guitar in hand, stood up for what he believed in and challenged us all to do the same. Three-time Emmy-nominated filmmaker Kenneth Bowser examines one of America's most iconic folk music heroes in Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune, premiering nationally Monday, January 23 at 10 pm (check local listings).

Previews + Extras

  • Interview with Christopher Hitchens: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Interview with Christopher Hitchens

    S26 E1 - 5m 51s

    Before his untimely passing on December 15, 2011, author and journalist Christopher Hitchens sat for an interview for Phil Ochs: There But For Fortune, airing January 23 at 10 pm (check local listings). Hitchens offered his viewpoint on the music of Ochs, the United States involvement in Chile, how the modern documentaries have replaced folk music in activism, and more.

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