Joseph “Country Joe” McDonald has died. The singer/songwriter who fronted counterculture folk-rock icons Country Joe And The Fish died of complications from Parkinson’s disease last night, according to TMZ and Best Classic Bands. McDonald wrote the psychedelic Berkeley, California band’s most enduring songs, including the Vietnam War protest anthem “The Fish Cheer/I-Feel-Like-I’m-Fixin’-To-Die Rag” and “Not So Sweet Martha Lorraine,” their sole Hot 100 hit. Country Joe And The Fish were fixtures of San Francisco’s Summer Of Love in 1967 and also played one of the most famous sets at Woodstock. Over his career, he released dozens of solo albums in addition to his output with the group, most recently 50 in 2017. McDonald was 84.
McDonald’s eldest two children, Seven and Devin, shared this statement:
Our father, “Country Joe” McDonald, passed away March 7th in his beloved home in Berkeley. Surrounded by adoring wife of 43 years, our step-mother Kathy McDonald and five his children, including our siblings Tara, Emily & Ryan. Dad traveled and worked all over the world and he loved no place more than Berkeley, California. We are endlessly proud of his work & music & the world he helped create. Thank you for your thoughts & prayers. Please spend time with your loved ones today in his name & never be afraid to speak your mind, standup for your fellows & against injustice. And don’t give up the dream of Peace on Earth…