Denver, John (1943-1997), was a popular American singer and songwriter. He was best known for his clean-cut image and performing style that blended country and folk music with pop styles. Denver usually accompanied himself on the acoustic guitar. He also starred in several successful motion pictures and was active in humanitarian and environmental causes.
Denver was born on Dec. 31, 1943, in Roswell, New Mexico. His real name was Henry John Deutschendorf, Jr. After attending Texas Tech University from 1961 to 1964, he joined the Chad Mitchell folk music trio in 1965. After the trio disbanded in 1968, Denver began a solo career and quickly established his popularity through concerts, television specials, and recordings. In 1969, his song, “Leaving on a Jet Plane” became an international hit for the folk group Peter, Paul & Mary. Denver’s hits include “Take Me Home, Country Roads” (1971), “Rocky Mountain High” (1972), ”Sunshine on My Shoulders” (1973), “Annie’s Song” (1974), “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” (1975), and “I’m Sorry” (1975). More than 100 million copies of his albums have been sold.
Denver made his motion-picture debut in the fantasy Oh, God! (1977). He also appeared in several films made for television. He was active in organizations to eliminate world hunger, help children, and preserve the environment. He wrote an autobiography, Take Me Home (1994). Denver died in an airplane crash off the coast of Monterey, California, on Oct. 12, 1997.
