Margo Guryan “More Understanding Than A Man”

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In a remarkable discovery, a previously unreleased track by the late Margo Guryan, titled “More Understanding Than A Man,” has been unveiled to the public. Recorded back in 1957, this song is not only one of Guryan’s earliest demos but also a pioneering work in the realm of feminist music.

margo guryan more understanding than a man

A Song Ahead of Its Time

“More Understanding Than A Man,” beautifully vocalized by Nina Lindenbaum, Guryan’s high school best friend and college roommate, stands out as a feminist ode. In this unique piece, Guryan uses the metaphor of a river to express the sentiment that sometimes, non-human entities can comprehend women’s experiences better than men. This song was later picked up by Swedish jazz star Alice Babs, marking Guryan’s early international recognition.

Margo Guryan's Legacy

Born on September 20, 1937, in New York City and passing away on November 10, 2021, Margo Guryan remains a celebrated figure in music. She is most remembered for her 1968 album “Take A Picture.” Throughout her career, Guryan’s compositions were recorded by significant artists, including Mama Cass, Bobbie Gentry, Glen Campbell, Astrud Gilberto, and others. Her first song, “Moon Ride,” was recorded by jazz singer Chris Connor while Guryan was still in high school.

Rediscovery and Renaissance

Guryan’s “Take A Picture” album, initially released in 1968, found a new audience decades later, particularly in Japan. This resurgence was a surprise to Guryan and her husband, David Rosner, who discovered the album’s late success when they received a royalty check from Japan in the late 1990s. In 2000, Franklin Castle Recordings reissued “Take A Picture,” followed by “25 Demos” in 2001, reintroducing Guryan’s unique voice and songwriting to a new generation of listeners.

A Reluctant Performer with a Distinct Voice

Despite her talent, Guryan was known for her reluctance to perform live, a decision that initially limited her album’s success. However, her unique voice, characterized by a range break and ethereal quality achieved through double tracking, eventually garnered appreciation for its distinctiveness and emotional depth.

A Life of Music and Teaching

After the initial setback in her recording career, Guryan continued to write songs and teach music. Her work extended beyond the pop realm, including political songs and “The Chopsticks Variations,” a playful take on the famous piano exercise, showcasing her diverse musical talents.

Remembering Margo Guryan

Margo Guryan’s contribution to music, especially in the realms of pop and jazz, remains influential. “More Understanding Than A Man” not only adds to her rich legacy but also offers a window into the evolving perspectives on feminism in music history.

For more on Margo Guryan’s life and music, read the detailed New York Times obituary.

With the posthumous release of “More Understanding Than A Man,” fans old and new can appreciate the depth and foresight of Guryan’s artistry, a testament to her enduring impact on music and feminist thought.

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