The psychedelic folk-rock singer died “surrounded by household”.
The singer has sadly died (Picture: Getty Photographs)
Nation Joe McDonald has sadly died aged 84. The singer, who was the frontman of Sixties group Nation Joe and the Fish, died because of issues from Parkinson’s. He died in Berkeley, California, after his battle with the illness, it was confirmed by a supply near his spouse. The singer was finest recognized for the anti-Vietnam Struggle anthem, I-Really feel-Like-I am-Fixin’-to-Die. The band grew to nationwide fame after his solo efficiency of the tune on the 1969 Woodstock Pageant.
The band issued an announcement following Joe’s passing as they wrote: “We’re deeply saddened to report the passing of Nation Joe McDonald, who died yesterday, March seventh, on the age of 84, in Berkeley, California. He was surrounded by household.” The group had a formidable profession, whereas McDonald additionally produced 40 solo albums.
They had been additionally recognized for The Fish Cheer, which spelled out the F-word, which went down in historical past with their followers as a memorable second. The group additionally included guitarist Barry ‘The Fish’ Melton, keyboardist David Cohen, drummer Gary ‘Rooster’ Hirsh, and bassist Bruce Barthol.
They carried out at a number of iconic venues together with the Fillmore Auditorium and the Avalon Ballroom. Their most well-known hit, I-Really feel-Like-I am-Fixin’-to-Die charted properly and rapidly turned their high hit, and their politically-focused songs continued to affect audiences all through.
Whereas they finally disbanded, McDonald continued to deal with music and activism and labored with the likes of Vietnam Veterans In opposition to the Struggle and Swords to Plowshares.
His solo albums, similar to Vietnam Expertise, additionally signified his ardour for combining activism and songwriting. He has a big discography, starting from Considering of Woody Guthrie, to Struggle Struggle Struggle, with a big assortment of his songs remembered by followers too.
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Tributes have poured in as individuals keep in mind the 60s icon, with one person writing on X: “RIP to this peoples champ – Nation Joe McDonald Jan 1, 1942 – March 7, 2026 “And it is one, two, three, WHAT ARE WE FIGHTING FOR?…” Whereas one other mentioned: “RIP Nation Joe McDonald, influential singer whose music turned highly effective voice of the 60s protest period, has died. The legendary music icon was 84. McDonald gained reputation because the lead singer and co-founder of the psychedelic people rock band Nation Joe and the Fish.”
A 3rd wrote: “Relaxation in peace, Nation Joe McDonald. Thanks to your music and for the unforgettable I-Really feel-Like-I’m-Fixin’-to-Die Rag, the anthem of Woodstock. I really hope the youthful technology will uncover it and carry that spirit ahead.”
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