Eric Andersen Talks Dylan, Warhol & THE SONGPOET on Tom Needham’s Sounds of Film

SOUNDS OF FILM with Tom Needham

This week on Tom Needham’s SOUNDS OF FILM, the spotlight is on iconic troubadour Eric Andersen, the poetic voice of the Greenwich Village folk scene.

In a revealing and wide-ranging interview, Andersen opens up about his encounters with cultural titans like Andy Warhol, Bob Dylan, Brian Epstein, and Lou Reed, while reflecting on the personal and professional crossroads that shaped his singular journey through the music world.

The discussion centers on THE SONGPOET, a deeply personal and cinematic portrait of Andersen’s life, directed by Paul Lamont. The documentary captures the emotional highs and devastating setbacks of a fiercely independent artist navigating the changing tides of fame, artistic purpose, and legacy. With featured appearances by Clive Davis, Lenny Kaye, Tom Paxton, John Sebastian, and Anthony DeCurtis, the film charts Andersen’s relentless pursuit of truth in song and spirit.

Once poised to break out as an international star in the late 1960s, Andersen’s trajectory was shaken by the sudden death of his manager, Beatles impresario Brian Epstein. Years later, a second near-miss would again alter his path—but never his voice.

THE SONGPOET reveals an artist who has always chosen the road less taken, staying true to the calling of his craft.

The Sounds of Film is the nation’s longest-running film and music-themed radio show. Hosted by Tom Needham, the program has featured exclusive interviews with a wide range of musical and cinematic legends, including Laurie Anderson, Jimmy Webb, Melanie, Billy Joel, Chuck D, Vince Giordano, Peter Yarrow, Nile Rodgers, and many more. Broadcasting for over three decades, SOUNDS OF FILM reaches audiences across Long Island, Connecticut, and the world via streaming.