John Denver
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By John Stokes |
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Angelina JolieIn a recent issue of Us Weekly, Howard Stern is quoted on his impressions of different Hollywood celebrities—among them, Angelina Jolie and Brad ..... John Denver is a name synonymous with Colorado; his music greatly inspired by his adopted home state and the beautiful Rocky Mountain landscape. John Denver is known all around the world as a talented American singer and songwriter. Born as Henry John Deutscendorf, John Denver began his career as a folk rock musician in the early 1960s and soon thereafter joined the Mitchell Trio as their new lead singer. His next success came when Peter, Paul, and Mary recorded his song “Leaving On A Jet Plane”, their first and only Number One single. John Denver was with the Trio most of four years, and after the group disbanded he found himself on the top of the Pop charts as one of the biggest selling artists during the 1970s. Some of his most popular hits include “Rocky Mountain High”, “Take Me Home, Country Roads”, “Sunshine On My Shoulders”, “Thank God I’m A Country Boy”, “Back Home Again”, and “Annie’s Song”.
John Denver was not only well known for his music, but for his activism in a variety of environmental and humanitarian causes. He expressed his views gently and compassionately through his lyrics encouraging listeners to get closer to the earth and nature in a peaceful and compassionate manner. His music was greatly influenced by his experiences living in the Rocky Mountains near Aspen, Colorado. The snow, the sunshine, the beauty of all of nature interacting, that was what inspired John Denver to compose his heartfelt musical creations. He collaborated with Jim Henson the creator of the Muppets and appeared on many episodes and recorded CDs with the lovable cast as well. John also had a major acting role in the hit movie “Oh God!” with George Burns.
John Denver continues to be one of the most popular artists of the twentieth century. He died tragically on October 12, 1997 in an aircraft he had just purchased and was piloting for the first time, after it crashed because of low fuel. He lived his life close to nature immersing himself in his singing and songwriting, while making great contributions to charitable organizations, as well as environmental, and humanitarian efforts. John Denver will remain in our hearts forever, and his music will never be forgotten. Fans can learn more about John Denver at www.johndenver.com, www.johndenver.net, or www.john-denver.org. Even though he is no longer with us, his music will continue to influence old and new listeners alike for years to come.
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