Milwaukee Folk Legend Larry Penn Remained at Anodyne Coffee Roasting

Sharon Monahan has spent the last several years digitizing the extensive archive of her late father, Larry Penn. The project involves scanning decades of physical media, including CDs, photographs, videos, and letters, to make the materials available online.

Penn died in 2014 after a career that saw him release ten albums. He was known for touring festivals globally, with performances extending as far as Russia. His songwriting focused on themes of organized labor, trucks, trains, and family dynamics.

One of his most recognized works, “I’m a Little Cookie,” was recorded by Pete Seeger during a performance at Carnegie Hall. The track served as the theme song for a CBC children’s show and has been covered by dozens of other artists. Other compositions include “Plastic in the Trees” regarding pollution and “Tommy the Dishwasher” addressing minimum wage issues.

Monahan, who describes herself as the keeper of her father’s legacy, is currently updating larrypenn.com. The website allows visitors to purchase his CDs and digital music. She is also working on a special project to showcase the range of her father’s talents and interests.

The annual tribute concert scheduled for November 8 at Anodyne Coffee Roasting in Milwaukee will feature several performers. The lineup includes Lil Rev, Will Branch, Jim Ohlschmidt, Ed Ellis, Bob and Diana Suckiel, John Stano, and Joe Kudlada. The event runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Lil Rev, a younger Milwaukee musician, became a fan of Penn during his teenage years. Rev frequently attended Penn’s gigs and eventually became a regular collaborator. When Penn’s health declined in his later years, Rev helped him continue performing on stage.

Monahan notes that Rev promised to continue his mentor’s legacy. She credits Rev for the logistical work required to organize the tribute concert. The two collaborated on an album titled “Around the Campfire” in 2012.

Penn’s musical output reflected his involvement in the 1960s social justice movement. He later focused on fighting for labor unions and supporting strikes. He advocated for workers earning a living wage, particularly when corporations profited from their labor. His songs also documented the history of railroads, hobos, and railroad graffiti. The concert takes place at 224 W. Bruce St.