In Memoriam

Country Joe McDonald

January 1, 1942 – March 7, 2026 · aged 84

Psychedelic Rock · Folk

Joseph Allen 'Country Joe' McDonald was a pivotal voice of the 1960s counterculture and a fierce, satirical protest singer. Born in Washington D.C. in 1942, he co-founded the Berkeley-based psychedelic rock group Country Joe and the Fish. He etched his name permanently into music history at the 1969 Woodstock festival, leading half a million people in the infamous 'Fish Cheer' followed by his darkly comic anti-Vietnam War anthem, 'I-Feel-Like-I'm-Fixin'-to-Die Rag.' That single performance became one of the defining moments of the era, brilliantly capturing the anger, absurdity, and rebellious spirit of the youth movement. Beyond Woodstock, McDonald was a dedicated environmentalist and a lifelong advocate for military veterans, actively working to bridge the gap between the peace movement and those who served. He remained a vibrant part of the folk scene for decades. He passed away on March 7, 2026, at the age of 84. The counterculture lost one of its most fearless voices.

Milestones

The 'Fish' Cheer/I-Feel-Like-I'm-Fixin'-to-Die Rag

Also remembered in 2026

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