Michael Hurley, hero of the US folk underground, dies aged 83

Singer-songwriter made more than 30 albums away from the mainstream, inspiring numerous artists in American alternative music

Michael Hurley, the American singer-songwriter whose unique path through the US folk scene made him an inspiration to generations of alternative musicians, has died aged 83.

A statement from the family announced his recent sudden passing", though no cause of death has been given. It added: The godfather of freak folk' was for a prolific half-century the purveyor of an eccentric genius and compassionate wit ... There is no other. Friends, family and the music community deeply mourn his loss."