Published on April 3, 2026
At Sharp’s folk club, one seat was poignantly empty: that of Tom Paley, who once played with Woody Guthrie and Lead Belly and who died last week. The club’s regulars gathered in remembrance, reflecting on the profound impact Paley had on their lives and the folk music community.
An old man in an exceptional jumper began singing an old sea shanty as a tribute to Paley, who passed away at the age of 89. The room filled with voices, initially hesitant, but growing stronger and more harmonious as everyone joined in the chorus: “Tom has gone and we’ll go, too. Tom’s gone to Hilo.” The bittersweet melody resonated deeply, encapsulating the collective sorrow felt .
Paley was a legendary figure in the folk scene, known for his collaborations with iconic musicians like Lead Belly and Woody Guthrie. His influence extended to the sounds of Bob Dylan and Jerry Garcia, making him a towering presence in the genre. Regular attendees of Sharp’s expressed their gratitude for the musical legacy he left behind and shared personal anecdotes about how his work shaped their own musical journeys.
Located at Cecil Sharp House in Camden, Sharp’s folk club is one of London’s most esteemed venues, often serving as a gathering spot for enthusiasts of traditional and contemporary folk music. On this occasion, it was transformed into a space of remembrance, filled with emotional tributes and communal singing.
As attendees reminisced about Paley’s contributions to the folk community, it became clear that his spirit would continue to inspire others. The evening morphing into a celebration of his life and artistry underscored the unbreakable bond between musicians and their audiences, pointing to the power of music as a means of connection and remembrance.
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