Born in Seattle in 1939 and raised in Denver, Colorado, Judy Collins began her musical career as a classical pianist before switching to folk music and guitar in her teens. She moved to New York City's Greenwich Village in the early 1960s, signing with Elektra Records and releasing her debut album A Maid of Constant Sorrow in 1961, featuring traditional folk songs. Collins records across folk, pop, rock, standards, and show tunes, interpreting works by songwriters such as Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, and Stephen Sondheim. Key releases include Wildflowers (1967) with the hit 'Both Sides, Now,' and Judith (1975) featuring 'Send in the Clowns,' which charted on Billboard and earned Grammy nominations. She has released over 36 studio albums and maintains an active touring schedule. Known live for her clear voice and song selection, Collins performs in clubs, orchestras, and festivals, drawing on her Greenwich Village folk scene experience.