Izzy Young was an American actor best known for his roles in Det finns inga smålänningar (1981), Evil Ed (1995), and Folklore Center Blues (2017). He was also a notable folk music impresario influential in the 1960s Greenwich Village scene.
Personal and Family Life
Izzy Young was born as Israel Goodman Young on March 26, 1928, in Manhattan. He grew up in New York City’s Lower East Side and later moved to The Bronx. His early life included working in his father’s bakery in Brooklyn before he found his passion in the music business. Young was the father of Philomène Grandin.
Career Highlights
In 1957, Young opened the Folklore Center in New York City, which became a hub for folk music enthusiasts and musicians. He organized Bob Dylan’s first major concert outside of Greenwich Village at Carnegie Chapter Hall and supported many artists including John Sebastian and the group Peter, Paul and Mary. In 1973, he moved to Stockholm, where he opened the Folklore Centrum, a music shop that remained active until 2018.
Death and Legacy
Izzy Young passed away on February 4, 2019, in Stockholm, Sweden. He is remembered for his significant contributions to the folk music scene and his role in nurturing various artists throughout his career. His influence continues to be felt in the music community, especially among folk musicians.
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| The Girl Who Played with Fire | 2009 | Man in Synagogue (uncredited) |
| Evil Ed | 1995 | Head of Culture Film Department (voice) |
| Det finns inga smålänningar | 1981 | American Journalist |
| Folklore Center Blues | 2017 | Self |