Obituary – Cause of Death : “Essra Mohawk, Singer-Songwriter Who Performed with Zappa and Garcia, Dies at 75”

Title: Remembering Essra Mohawk: A Talented Singer-Songwriter’s Journey

Introduction:

Renowned singer-songwriter Essra Mohawk, who missed a shot at fame during Woodstock but went on to collaborate with music legends like Frank Zappa and Jerry Garcia, has passed away at the age of 75. While the cause of her death remains unknown, her legacy as a gifted musician and her significant contributions to the industry will continue to inspire generations to come.

Biography and Early Life:

Born as Sandra Elayne Hurvitz on April 23, 1948, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Essra Mohawk displayed a passion for music from a young age. She began playing the piano at the age of five and later learned to play the guitar and write her own songs. Her unique voice and songwriting abilities set her apart from her peers, attracting attention in the local music scene.

Career and Rise to Fame:

Essra Mohawk’s career took off in the 1960s when she became a part of the band The Magic Mushrooms, known for their psychedelic rock sound. However, it was her missed opportunity to perform at the iconic Woodstock festival in 1969 that could have propelled her to stardom. Undeterred, she remained dedicated to her craft and continued to create and perform music.

In the early 1970s, Mohawk signed with Reprise Records and released her debut solo album, “Primordial Lovers.” The album showcased her versatility and songwriting prowess, earning critical acclaim. Despite not achieving commercial success at the time, her work caught the attention of Frank Zappa, who invited her to collaborate on his album “Apostrophe.”

Collaborations and Musical Influence:

Essra Mohawk’s collaborations with Frank Zappa and Jerry Garcia further solidified her reputation as a talented musician. Her soulful vocals and poetic lyrics added depth to their compositions, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. Mohawk’s ability to seamlessly blend genres, from rock to folk to jazz, demonstrated her versatility and innovation as an artist.

Legacy and Influence:

While Essra Mohawk may have missed out on the fame she deserved, her influence on the music industry cannot be understated. Her song “Change of Heart” gained recognition when Cyndi Lauper recorded a cover version, which achieved a Top 10 hit in 1987. Mohawk’s songwriting abilities continue to inspire artists, and her unique voice remains a testament to her extraordinary talent.

Essra Mohawk’s dedication to her craft and refusal to conform to mainstream expectations made her a true icon. She paved the way for female artists in a male-dominated industry and encouraged others to express their individuality through music. Her legacy will live on through her timeless music and the impact she had on fellow musicians and fans alike.

Conclusion:

The music world bids farewell to a remarkable talent, Essra Mohawk, whose contributions to the industry will be remembered for years to come. While her untimely passing leaves us with a void, her music and legacy will continue to inspire and captivate audiences. As we mourn the loss of an extraordinary artist, we celebrate the life and career of Essra Mohawk, a true force in the world of music..

The singer-songwriter Essra Mohawk missed a shot of fame at Woodstock. But she went on to perform with Frank Zappa and Jerry Garcia and to see Cyndi Lauper notch a Top 10 hit in 1987 with her version of Ms. Mohawk’s “Change of Heart.” She has died at 75. https://t.co/NgVdME6U6r

— NYT Obituaries (@NYTObits) December 24, 2023

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@NYTObits said The singer-songwriter Essra Mohawk missed a shot of fame at Woodstock. But she went on to perform with Frank Zappa and Jerry Garcia and to see Cyndi Lauper notch a Top 10 hit in 1987 with her version of Ms. Mohawk’s “Change of Heart.” She has died at 75. nyti.ms/3RU71Td