Show benefits folk singer

If you’re unfamiliar with Phillips, think along the lines of Woody Guthrie or Pete Seeger. Billing himself as “The Golden Voice of the Great Southwest,” Phillips is famous for sandwiching his songs between stories, jokes and tall tales about the world, politics and himself.

“He would come across as very casual; in reality he was one of the best rehearsed,” Allen said. “He keeps people laughing and so well-entertained. That doesn’t happen by accident.”

Here’s how Phillips once described what he did: “I sing songs about trains, coal mines, unions, factories, working people, lazy people, the old and new West, bums, politicians and the different things that happen to you when you’re in love. And I tell stories and try to get people laughing and singing together.”

Phillips has performed in Bellingham perhaps a halfdozen times through the decades, often on his way to or from folk festivals in Seattle or Vancouver, B.C., and often staying with local musician friends when he came through.

“He’s said, ‘Musicians need safe houses on the road,’” said Allen, who has given Phillips shelter, “a place where you can let down and be yourself.”

Phillips has been called the Grand Duke of Hobos for his time riding the rails. He’s a Korean War veteran-turnedpacifist, a supporter of the Industrial Workers of the World, and a candidate for president in 1976 on the Sloth and Indolence ticket.

Along the way, he has helped performers such as Bellingham’s Mike Marker land gigs, inspired songwriters such as Allen, and done what he could to foster a sense of community among folk musicians everywhere.

Now, with Phillips saddled with medical expenses, the

folk community has responded with benefit concerts for him across the country.

The Bellingham benefit will be the second one in Washington, and a tribute concert for Phillips will be held May 23 in Seattle at the Northwest Folklife Festival.

Marker, who has performed with Phillips, describes him as a man full of life.

“There’s no separation between life and work and politics and music,” Marker said. “You get this bigger view of reality.”

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