WXPN Presents: Power of Song
WXPN presents Power of Song, a series highlighting music and musicians that have had an impact on society and culture. In interviews and short-form profiles WXPN hosts and producers explore the intersection between music and politics, tracing the history of protest music rich in social commentary.
Monday November 3, 3008 - The Eve of the 2008 Election
Tune in to hear a one-hour special of music and commentary on the Power of Song in shaping this country. Produced by WXPN's Tracey Tannenbaum, this public radio special highlights the music and the musicians that have influenced our society in the 20th and 21st century. 8-9pm ET on 88.5FM and worldwide at XPN.org/listen.
Throughout the years, icons such as Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Tracy Chapman, Patti Smith, and Billy Bragg have seized the torch, penning songs about class inequities. From Leadbelly and James Brown to Public Enemy and Billie Holiday, African-American artists have used music to champion Black Pride and address racial inequality. Music has been at the forefront of the civil rights, anti-war and youth movements of the 1960's. Songwriters have written protest songs about child abuse, women's rights and even MTV... still managing to enlighten while they entertain.
The Selections
Listen to audio profiles of the quintessential protest music that make up the Power of Song series by selecting a link below. Then, learn more about the songs and artists through related web links and video.
The Photos
