WDIA (J.M. & C.H.)
In the Civil Rights movement during the mid 60’s and 70’s, almost all radio stations were geared toward white viewers. Then, in 1947, the WDIA Radio Station started to change their audience from white people to african americans. During the civil rights movement, WDIA helped african americans with their everyday lives using music.
The WDIA Radio Station was an independent radio station in Memphis, Tennessee that started out in 1947. The WDIA radio station was about to go off air, then the owners John Pepper and Bert Ferguson hired a local high school teacher and nationally syndicated columnist Nat D. Williams, an African American to host a show. This station was mainly used to help segregated African Americans. WDIA was just a normal radio station that played country, western music, classical and light pop like the other stations around town. Nat D. Williams was the first African American DJ (disc jockey).
During the bus boycott, people would have different ways of going to work. One way was carpooling, which was held at certain places the WDIA told people about by using special codes. The station also frequently said things relating to the bus boycott, like about keeping young people walking safe. Every day of the boycott, WDIA supported the black community and encouraged them. The boycott was one of the largest priorities while it was happening.
WDIA started B.B.Kings career in music. Before he started out, he was living on the streets, with a guitar and the clothes on his back. When he was found by a recruiter, he was accepted immediately, even though he was covered in, as he said, Mississippi mud. His first radio appearance was on WDIA for a 15 minute radio show, sponsored by a patent medicine called Pep-Ti-Kon, and later, Lucky Strike cigarettes. He took over for Maurice "Hot Rod" Hulbert after one year of his radio show, then left the station after his career launched.
The manager of the station, Bert Ferguson worked at a different station just two years before WDIA was about to close. There were many radio shows on the old station for african american audiences. While they were performed by white men, the music that accompanied the shows was from black singers. When the white community heard Nat D. Williams on the air, some viewers called in demanding he be taken off the air. Despite the hate, the show was loved by many.
The switch from white to black programming seemed to be contagious, since other station started sending representatives to WDIA. After a few years, numerous stations had added all black programming to their stations, and therefore becoming more popular. Luckily, the shows took off with the black audience because there were so many black hosts to give their views on what should be in the show, since the shows thought of by Ferguson were unpopular. One of the many people that helped the popularity of the station Tina Turner, who has been teamed with the WDIA for 31 years. In a few years, WDIA became the most popular radio station in Memphis, Tennessee.
Today, the WDIA is still running strong and is still a majorly used source for news. The station has reached their 65th anniversary.
Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zUbfoqdMUt2xDtBBx1hrSQCCcEwuSGKP5HqXhANO2J8/edit
Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zUbfoqdMUt2xDtBBx1hrSQCCcEwuSGKP5HqXhANO2J8/edit
WDIA (K.E. & R.R.)
Five Struggles and Successes of the WDIA Radio Station
No rights, no kindness. During the Civil Rights Movement, one of the comforts for segregated African Americans was music. WDIA Radio Station spread that comfort country wide and started a music revolution.
No rights, no kindness. During the Civil Rights Movement, one of the comforts for segregated African Americans was music. WDIA Radio Station spread that comfort country wide and started a music revolution.
1. The Switch to All-Black Programming
WDIA Radio was first created by John Pepper and Dick Ferguson, both were white. It originates in Memphis, Tennessee. When the station was first created, it did not gain popularity quickly. John Pepper and Dick Ferguson decided to switch the radio to all-black programming. It became a huge success. WDIA Radio became the first radio program entirely for African Americans. “WDIA’s achievement was also more extraordinary since it occurred during the time of widely accepted racism.”(Youtube video- The TN Radio Hall of Fame ). After switching to all-black programming, WDIA Radio became the #2 station in Memphis.
WDIA Radio was first created by John Pepper and Dick Ferguson, both were white. It originates in Memphis, Tennessee. When the station was first created, it did not gain popularity quickly. John Pepper and Dick Ferguson decided to switch the radio to all-black programming. It became a huge success. WDIA Radio became the first radio program entirely for African Americans. “WDIA’s achievement was also more extraordinary since it occurred during the time of widely accepted racism.”(Youtube video- The TN Radio Hall of Fame ). After switching to all-black programming, WDIA Radio became the #2 station in Memphis.
2. Segregationists
As word of the thriving radio station leaked, biased opinions were unfortunately formed as well. A majority of the people during this time period were racist. White segregationists sent many bomb threats to WDIA Radio after the daring switch to all-black programming. A segregationist is someone who believes the races should be kept apart. The bomb threats didn’t faze the popular radio station. They continued to broadcast.
As word of the thriving radio station leaked, biased opinions were unfortunately formed as well. A majority of the people during this time period were racist. White segregationists sent many bomb threats to WDIA Radio after the daring switch to all-black programming. A segregationist is someone who believes the races should be kept apart. The bomb threats didn’t faze the popular radio station. They continued to broadcast.
3. Inspiration for Radio Stations
The WDIA Radio inspired other radios. As the WDIA Radio became more and
more popular, other radio stations began playing African American music on their stations.”WDIA became the first radio station to grow some million dollars in a single year.”(Youtube) WDIA sent their signal south and gained the attention of more than 1.5 million people, black and white. White youth began to appreciate and favor African American music. The WDIA Radio made a huge breakthrough with the segregation issue that consumed the American society. It promoted African American music and encouraged the acceptance of African American culture.
The WDIA Radio inspired other radios. As the WDIA Radio became more and
more popular, other radio stations began playing African American music on their stations.”WDIA became the first radio station to grow some million dollars in a single year.”(Youtube) WDIA sent their signal south and gained the attention of more than 1.5 million people, black and white. White youth began to appreciate and favor African American music. The WDIA Radio made a huge breakthrough with the segregation issue that consumed the American society. It promoted African American music and encouraged the acceptance of African American culture.
4. Inspiration for Singers
As WDIA spread to the ears of all races, many listeners found more of an interest in the music it played. Popularity of African American songs grew amongst white people. The soul and creativity behind the songs intrigued white people and the audience grew. Elvis Presley, a famous white singer known for his Negro sounding voice, sang the same song as Little Richard, an African American singer. Little Richard’s voice was preferred over Elvis Presley’s because it was “...unique and more exciting.” Singers began to expand their genres of songs.
5. A Breakthrough for Music
WDIA Radio was the start of a music revolution. The increase to 50,000 watts increased its audience to 10% of African Americans in the United States. “They empowered a huge segment of the population that was largely unrecognized.”(Youtube) The bigger the audience grew, the more popular African American music became. Blues and R&B even became popular among white people. White singers began to switch song genres. Elvis Presley got a record deal because of his Negro sounding voice. He became one of the most popular singers ever. WDIA Radio created the change of views of African American music and made a breakthrough with segregation.
Today, WDIA Radio is still playing classic R&B. The radio was sold by its original owners in 1957 but it continues to thrive. WDIA Radio raises money for needy families, they buy busses for transportation for disabled black children, they set up the Goodwill Home for Black Children, and a Little League for black children. They were entered into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame in May 2013. May 2013 was also the year the radio station celebrated its 65th year anniversary.
Motown (L.D. and S.H.)
The Grit, The Glam, The Glory. That's what Motown is about. The artists worked hard, they got the fame, and now they are legends. In this listical there are many facts and stories about how Motown changed American history forever.
The Motown genre is music that blends several different types of sounds that brought our nation together. One genre being R&B. R&B is a type of popular African-American music that originated in the 1940s. It’s also a combination of rhythm and blues. Motown, of course, stands for more than just the historic music. The label and its remarkable legacy is a reflection of the hard work and its dedicated individuals overcoming incredible obstacles to achieve great success. The Motown sound is one of the most well know sounds of the 50’s till present day. The sound brought people together and helped fix our racially divided country.
The founder of Motown Records is Berry Gordy. Berry Gordy, a former boxer and automobile worker, decided to establish Motown Records after knowing Smokey Robinson. They wanted to produce something the white music industry couldn’t compare to. He started the company on a $800 loan. In 1957 Gordy used his profits from songwriting to produce a portfolio of successful artists. One of those being The Miracles. Smokey Robinson, the leader of The Miracles, encouraged Gordy to borrow $800 from his family to create a R&B label on Tamla Records. Gordy came up with the name Motown because in Detroit people called it a town, not a city. Also, Detroit was known as the e “Motor City” so that’s how Berry Gordy came up with the name Motown.
Jackie Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Michael Jackson, and Tito Jackson were all a part of the Jackson 5. Berry Gordy said that the Jackson 5 were “the last big stars to come rolling off my assembly line.” The band was led by Michael Jackson who was the youngest of the 5. The sound of the 5 was very upbeat, young and fresh. They were the only group that had a contract with Motown Records where their first four albums reached Number 1 on the charts. Jackson 5 was the first All African-American boy band to generate enormous excitement among white audiences. Everyone loved the sound they produced and couldn’t help tapping their foot to the beat.
The Supremes started out as a quartet known as The Primettes. The girls brought in sixteen year old Betty Travis. Travis was forced to quit the Primettes because her parents wanted her to pay more attention to her studies. After they narrowed the group down to three main girls by the names of Florence Ballard, Mary Wilson, Diana Ross the girls got asked by “Smokey” Robinson to sing a song for him, and audition for him in hopes to get to Motown’s leader Berry Gordy. One year later in 1961 Berry signed them, but he required them to change the name. Then, being the leader of the band, Ballard change the name to the Supremes. The Supremes were America’s most stylish, charmful, and soulful group that appealed across the board to black and white listeners at a time when racial divided the nation.
Motown’s energetic success reflected the progress and segregation the black people had faced. The black people expressed their feelings through singing which became known as the Motown genre. Motown was a black owned, black centered business that gave white Americans something they just couldn’t get enough of. The rich soulful music made white Americans love the groovy tunes. Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Music and Corporation, set up a system called Quality Control where meetings would be held to ensure that the best music they could produce would be released. Gordy said these meetings were one of the key elements of the company’s overall growth and success. At an office in Detroit, the home of Motown music, Berry Gordy created a 24- hour hit making and artist development factory, nurturing the artistic talent of the singers, writers, producers, and corporate executives. Motown is not only known for its upbeat music but the fact it brought many people together. It is know as the “Sound of Young America.” White and black, old and young, everyone loved the sound Motown music provided.
The Motown era was so inspiring, producers even came out with a musical. It’s a broadway tour that travels the world, showcasing Motown’s talent. Songs like “My girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” tell the story of Diana, Smokey, Berry, and the whole Motown family that fought for the album that changed America. Without touching stories like theirs, we wouldn’t have artist like Justin Timberlake and Kanye West which greatly influence our country today.
Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OHjMMifwioPYjueQyVkLjTmLjc2RntZScURziZf9wMI/edit?usp=sharing
Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OHjMMifwioPYjueQyVkLjTmLjc2RntZScURziZf9wMI/edit?usp=sharing
Motown (A.W. and G.B.)
Music was a huge source of inspiration during the civil rights movement. The traditional gospel "freedom songs" were eventually replaced with a newer, stronger, more assertive style of music known as Motown. Motown sound was influential to African Americans and helped give them confidence to protest for their rights. Motown's distinctive sound and Motown records itself are still. Around today. Numerous artists and groups have credited Motown as a source of inspiration for their own sound. Motown played a key role in the civil rights movement is an Integral part of America's culture.
- Origin of Motown Sound-
- Origin of Motown Sound-
- What is “Motown Sound"
Motown has a distinctive sound. This sound is usually made up of the use of tambourines , drums, bass instruments, a strong melody and chord structure, along with a call and response mechanism found in traditional gospel music. Motown's distinctive sound was characterized by its use of orchestration and string sections, not to mention horns, harmonies, and other refined production techniques . Motown was also one of the first styles of pop to showcase girl groups as an act instead of singular female artists. Soul was the term to describe these artist's music. It combined R&B and gospel in a style that came from the deeply rooted anger and emotions of the African Americans who had faced discrimination for so long.
- Motown Records
Motown’s most important album was, Black Forum. This album was extremely popular in Detroit. Aaron hall a television and radio producer said, “Black Forum was designed to give a platform to the era’s leading black intellectuals and activists.” Motown also included many quotes from famous civil rights activists such as Martin Luther King Jr. “ Black Forum became a well known album by Motown (Berry Gordy jr. especially) and in 1990 Berry Gordy, jr. had his record brought into the Rock and Roll hall of Fame. Motown Records, a label founded in Detroit, Michigan, produced many of these singers. Motown became a safe haven for many black singers who faced difficulty and prejudice when they tried to work for white-owned record labels.- Motown Records
- Motown and the Movement
Motown wrote music to influence the civil rights movement. In one of their songs, “I’m black and I’m proud” It gives blacks confidence to fight for their rights. Some of the lyrics from this song are, “ We tired of beating our heads against the wall, and working for someone else. Now we’re people like the birds and the bees.” These lyrics are only a little example of how influential Motown was to blacks during the civil rights movement. Music from the civil rights movement reflected the thoughts and feelings of African Americans during the era. Soul, as well as R&B music captured the emotion and passion of the period, which attracted many popular artists. "Respect" by Aretha Franklin was a pop song with a deeper meaning that was very important during the civil rights movement. Mary Wilson of the Supremes said in 2009. "The experience we had known being black was not being bona fide citizens, not being able to drink out of the same water fountains, playing to segregated audiences. Music reflected the need for change that was such a huge part of the civil rights movement. Artists such as James Brown spoke to crowds to gain support, and their performances helped to quell the rage of angry protesters. Motown/R&B artists used concerts as opportunities to spread philosophies of non violence, and to bring attention to the movement. These black artists were respected by those involved in the movement, which helped to promote peace.
- Management and Marketing
Motown marketed to all audiences white or black. Motown wanted to make a point so in order to obtain a larger fan- base, and to get white audiences to listen to their music Motown’s management sent their new artists to “Charm School” They would straighten their hair, dress in a style that was similar to that of white performers, and learn to act with decorum and obtain a high class attitudes. These changes, facilitated by Motown’s “artistic development” department, caused Motown to become wildly popular in white neighborhoods in no time at all.. the woman who ran the charm school, Maxine Powell was crucial when it came to helping Motown artists to become more polished, and desirable to white audiences. ”When I opened up, in 1964, the purpose was to help artists to become more class, to know what to do on stage or off stage because they did come from humble beginnings. some of them from the projects and some of them using street language. Some were rude and crude, you understand, but with me, its not where you come from its where you are going.” (Powell)
- Motown's destiny
Sources https://docs.google.com/document/d/1snLcsTnel62-7z2hzY8LppVPXoc_YAQEK03Lq0YNstc/edit?usp=sharing
Motown (O.D. & K.J.)
A classic genre of sweet music, coming from the hearts of many artist who sung and sung till they were equal with all. This genre of music was felt through the hearts of americans and was identified easily from others types of music. To this day it’s still made with the same passion like they are still singing for their civil rights. This can only be identified as Motown.
- The Real Motown sound and what makes it different
Motown specialized in a different type of soul music which now has the trademark name of Motown music. Motown music is a mix of soul and gospel music that`s tailored towards pop using percussion instruments like tambourines to accent the beat. Often times Motown songs will have very prominent bass-electric guitar lines with very distinctive chord structures. The gospel comes in through the call and response singing style found in most classic Motown songs. Pop comes in with the orchestral strings and horns with background singing. Motown Records producer stuck to “the KISS principle” (keep it simple, stupid). All of these things and more worked together to create a unique sound that still today is recognized as the Motown sound.
- Motown And How It Impacted The Community back in the day
Motown impacted the Civil Rights Movement in many ways big and small. The Motown sound was able to break down barriers between white and black people through music. Motown music was able to break some barriers like the labeling of music as “black music” or “white music” instead it was just good music. Not only did Motown`s music affect the community but Motown the company itself represented a rapidly changing social environment. Many Motown songs also reflected what Civil Rights activists were going through at the time. Throughout time music has been an important weapon in love and war and sometimes the key to winning, music can have positive and negative impacts, the impacts Motown music had can definitely be viewed as positive.
- Important Motown Artists Involved
Many important and very famous artists were involved in early Motown such as, Diana Ross and the Supremes (now broken up), Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Jackson 5 (split up because Michael Jackson went solo), and The Temptations. Tamla Records (a part of Motown Records) tried to sign Aretha Franklin but at the time they weren't a big label so she went somewhere else. The artists I mentioned earlier are part of what gave Motown it`s unique sound and kept them topping the charts. Diana Ross and the Supremes were the first black female performing group to take on a feminine image, instead of imitating male groups they showed off their femininity. Stevie Wonder was signed to Motown Records at the age of 11, and when he started out only earned $2.50. Smokey Robinson was the lead singer of The Miracles Smokey ended up producing 26 top 40 hits. Jackson 5 was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Temptations may not have been quite as successful as the other artists on this list but they have more songs that are still well known such as “My Girl”, The Temptations nickname was “The Hitless Temptations”.
- How the unique Motown sound helped it grow and break down barriers
Motown had a very unique sound but also had very unique artist that were involved in the genre. Motown had some mixed races but the main one was African American. This doesn’t sound like a big deal now but back then, it was different. This broke down barriers for a couple reasons but the main one is because it showed that “colored” artist can be just as successful as white artist. Again, not meaning much now but it was one of the first steps to equality. The People History Says, “Motown records consisted mainly of African-American groups, singers, songwriters and management and their musical and business success proved in breaking down the barriers of segregation and granted African-American performers and musicians a chances to reappropriate much of the success that had been credited to white rock 'n' rollers and pop artists who had success in singing "black music" during the previous decade.”
- Motown: Greatest hits and what was achieved because of it
Motown Records was established on April 14, 1960 by Berry Gordy on an $800 loan from his parents. It was founded in Detroit, Michigan (Motor City) hence the companies name. This was the largest black owned company in America at the time. Motown Records had many popular artist and definitely had many huge hits, some that even topped the charts. Artists like Jackson 5, Diana Rose, Stevie Wonder and Smokey Robinson all were up there with songs like My Girl, ABC, Light my Fire, and Ain’t no Mountain High Enough. These hit the charts and became very popular and high hitting songs at the time. This is important because African Americans were (back then) treated differently and this (as said earlier) was a good first step for equality. Most of the “greats hits” Motown Record produced topped white rock artistes songs. That proved that “colored” people can do just as well or achieve more success than everyone else.
Although Motown's most remembered and well known days may be in the past they're trying to come back and take the world by storm. Starting in the summer of 2011 Universal Motown separated from the Universal Motown Republic Group to join The Island Def Jam Music Group and reverted to the original Motown label. Artists from Universal Motown have been transferred to the newly brought back label. On January 25, 2012 it was announced that Ne-Yo is joining the Motown label not only as an artist but a new Senior Vice President. On April 1, 2014 it was announced the The Island Def Jam Music Group will no longer be running after their CEO retires, but in a press release sent out by Universal Music Group everything will be reorganized as separate labels.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1igVA-siHhwFvVqvDvDOiSN-fNbD5iImuFNvQRKGTskw/edit?usp=sharing
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1igVA-siHhwFvVqvDvDOiSN-fNbD5iImuFNvQRKGTskw/edit?usp=sharing
Marian Anderson (M.S. & L.C.)
Marian Anderson was an African American singer in 1930s. She was one of the most celebrated singers in the twentieth century.
In 1961, Marian Anderson, sang at the Lincoln memorial in front of 75,000 people. Before that, she was denied to perform in front of the Washington Constitution Hall because of her race. Also, her performance of “My Country tis of the” was broadcasted live for millions of radio listeners. Her first notes show no sign of nerves, her voice is forceful and sweet. People cheered and admired her despite the color of her skin.
Marian Anderson is still celebrated today. On April 6, 2014 there’s a celebrating of her performance at the Lincoln Memorial in 1961. We are celebrating the fur coat she wore that impactful moment in the U.S history. This would be the 75th anniversary of Marian’s coat. Not only are people celebrating this, but we are also still covering some of her songs today in America and other countries like Europe. Some of the songs people are covering are Joy To The World, and Deck The Halls.
Marian Anderson was the first African American to perform at the Met. She also performed at Carnegie Hall in New York. In 1902 she was an opera singer. People came from all around the US. People in the South even came to see Marian perform some of her hits. Marian was a successful singer in the United States.
Marian was married in 1946 to Orpheus Fisher, and in 1943 she was getting an education for music. Marian had over 200 songs in nine different languages. This is also how Marian could travel around Europe. Because of her incredible songs and performances, people were inspired by it. There was a foundation set up for high schoolers for blacks to advance in music.
Marian Anderson was booked for over 70 solo concerts in 1938 alone. In 1945 Marian was invited to go sing at the Constitution Hall. She could even fill venues in the South. Marian also had many concerts in Europe too. Marian had a concert at Wigmore Hall in London, and in 1930, she spent four years touring around the United States and Europe. She had 24 concerts in 12 weeks traveling 3,200 miles.
Marian Anderson was one of the greatest performers of the 1900s. She had an impact on history because she was an African American that was so powerful and so strong. Marian Anderson is a singer who can be remembered.
Source: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VPKpWk6ayq4p30cUQ8r11N7rne5T7Spisex2xX8_7ho/edit?usp=sharing
Source: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VPKpWk6ayq4p30cUQ8r11N7rne5T7Spisex2xX8_7ho/edit?usp=sharing
Marian Anderson (N.D. and A.D.)
The Civil Rights Movement was made possible by millions of people. Many are famous because of the major roles that played in this movement such as Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr. But there are also many people that are not as widely recognized. One of these icons is Marian Anderson, a singer who broke the racial inequality barrier using her musical talent.
She was denied permission to perform at Constitution Hall, so she performed in front of the Lincoln Memorial:
In 1939, Marian Anderson was denied a performance at Constitution Hall, the the biggest and most important concert hall in Washington D.C. The owners of Constitution Hall, the Daughters of the Revolution, didn’t allow Anderson to perform because of her race. When Anderson’s manager tried to book her at the hall, the manager shouted, “No Negro will ever appear in this hall while I am manager!” (Marian Anderson.com) When Eleanor Roosevelt learned that the DAR hadn’t let Anderson perform, she resigned from the DAR. Along with protesters all over the country, she helped Marian get permission to perform in front of the Lincoln Memorial. On Easter Sunday, Anderson gave a riveting performance for an audience of 75,000. Later, the DAR asked Anderson to perform at Constitution Hall six times.
Marian Anderson well known by many presidents
After Eleanor Roosevelt helped Marian Anderson get permission to perform in front of the Lincoln Memorial, she was well known to many presidents. When Mrs. Roosevelt invited her to perform at the White House, she became the first African American to perform there. In 1961, Anderson went to Washington to sing the national anthem at President John F. Kennedy's inauguration. Two years later, President Kennedy awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She received this honor one year before her farewell concert tour, which she opened, ironically, at Constitution Hall.
After Eleanor Roosevelt helped Marian Anderson get permission to perform in front of the Lincoln Memorial, she was well known to many presidents. When Mrs. Roosevelt invited her to perform at the White House, she became the first African American to perform there. In 1961, Anderson went to Washington to sing the national anthem at President John F. Kennedy's inauguration. Two years later, President Kennedy awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She received this honor one year before her farewell concert tour, which she opened, ironically, at Constitution Hall.
She was the first African American to perform with the New York Metropolitan Opera:
On January 7, 1955, Marian Anderson broke the color barrier by becoming the first African American to perform with the New York Metropolitan Opera. She performed in Verdi’s Un Ballo in Maschera. One person said that "Her voice was a rich, vibrant contralto of intrinsic beauty" (Wales). When Arturo Toscanini hear the live recording of Marian’s Act 1 aria, he said that to hear a voice like Marian Anderson’s comes only once in a century. Anderson never appeared with the company again, Anderson was named a permanent member of the Metropolitan Opera company.
On January 7, 1955, Marian Anderson broke the color barrier by becoming the first African American to perform with the New York Metropolitan Opera. She performed in Verdi’s Un Ballo in Maschera. One person said that "Her voice was a rich, vibrant contralto of intrinsic beauty" (Wales). When Arturo Toscanini hear the live recording of Marian’s Act 1 aria, he said that to hear a voice like Marian Anderson’s comes only once in a century. Anderson never appeared with the company again, Anderson was named a permanent member of the Metropolitan Opera company.
She was an active supporter of the civil rights movement
Marian Anderson believed that “as long as you keep a person down, some part of you has to be down there to hold the person down, so it means you cannot soar as you otherwise might” (Marian Anderson.com). She meant that she thought segregation restricted blacks from doing their best, but also restricted whites. She was active in supporting the civil rights movement during the 1960s, giving benefit concerts for the Congress of National Equality, and the National Association for Advanced Colored People. In 1963, she sang at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. She was also a representative UN National Rights Committee.
Marian Anderson believed that “as long as you keep a person down, some part of you has to be down there to hold the person down, so it means you cannot soar as you otherwise might” (Marian Anderson.com). She meant that she thought segregation restricted blacks from doing their best, but also restricted whites. She was active in supporting the civil rights movement during the 1960s, giving benefit concerts for the Congress of National Equality, and the National Association for Advanced Colored People. In 1963, she sang at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. She was also a representative UN National Rights Committee.
Marian Anderson did not grow up around extreme segregation
Born on February 27th, 1897, Marian Anderson lived in Philadelphia. " 'I don't remember being conscious of any difference between me and white children when I was a small child.' Anderson told an interviewer years later. 'I think this was because there were white and Negro families mingled on our block and all the children played together. We were in and out if each other's houses all day long'" (Freedman 6). She didn’t experience or see extreme racial inequality. However, when she went to the Deep South to perform, she was shocked by the segregation and extreme differences in black and white society. Whenever she performed in Europe, she was given the finest accommodations. In contrast, she couldn’t even find a hotel that would take her in the US.
Born on February 27th, 1897, Marian Anderson lived in Philadelphia. " 'I don't remember being conscious of any difference between me and white children when I was a small child.' Anderson told an interviewer years later. 'I think this was because there were white and Negro families mingled on our block and all the children played together. We were in and out if each other's houses all day long'" (Freedman 6). She didn’t experience or see extreme racial inequality. However, when she went to the Deep South to perform, she was shocked by the segregation and extreme differences in black and white society. Whenever she performed in Europe, she was given the finest accommodations. In contrast, she couldn’t even find a hotel that would take her in the US.
Present Day Implications
On April 8th, 1993, Marian Anderson died at the age of 96 due to heart failure. Marian lived a long life. Two months after, in June, over 2,000 fans and admirers attended a memorial service for Marian at Carnegie Hall.
Today, the Marian Anderson Award “honors artists who have had a positive impact on society, through their work or support for a cause” (Jaffe [page #2]). The award gives $25,000 annually. There is also the "Marian Anderson Prize for Emerging Classical Artists" which is given to promising young singers.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qXeGgzwaER870StCQ7kTEJ0Bnb1hWAj_qnCQN1TiCuI/edit?usp=sharing
On April 8th, 1993, Marian Anderson died at the age of 96 due to heart failure. Marian lived a long life. Two months after, in June, over 2,000 fans and admirers attended a memorial service for Marian at Carnegie Hall.
Today, the Marian Anderson Award “honors artists who have had a positive impact on society, through their work or support for a cause” (Jaffe [page #2]). The award gives $25,000 annually. There is also the "Marian Anderson Prize for Emerging Classical Artists" which is given to promising young singers.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qXeGgzwaER870StCQ7kTEJ0Bnb1hWAj_qnCQN1TiCuI/edit?usp=sharing
B.B. King (T.W. & J.W.)
B.B. King is one of the most well known blues player known to man, he has won numerous grammys, “The Thrill is Gone” was his biggest hit.
The Blues. The Blues was a musical form and genre created in the deep south around the 19th century. The Blues fromed fromed Rock&Roll & Rythm. The blues was a genre for people to get their feelings out and so much of a form of religion and pray. Some countries had their own Blues type Like Delta, Country, West Coast Blues, And texas. The Blues artists would use electric guitars to make their music. The term “Blues” Came from blue devils which meant sadness it was assessed as Blue Devils until 1912 until The band Dallas Blues became the first Copyrighted blues composition. The type of music was made to listen to from when people might be in a sad or so called depressed mood. Two men got into a fight and knocked over a kerosene stove, setting fire to the hall. B.B. raced outdoors to safety with everyone else, then realized that he left his most favorite possession 30$ acoustic guitar inside, so he ran inside of the burning building to save it, narrowly escaping death.
The Museum. The B.B King museum was a special type of museum, It was a Delta Blues museum which was a museum for the blues music made back in the 1920’s 20th Century, The mission for the Delta Blues museum was to preserve and keep the legacy of B.B. King and celebrate the rich culture of the Mississippi Delta. The cool thing about the Delta Blues museum was that it was created at B.B. Kings hometown, 400 second street, Indianola Mississippi USA. The B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center Opened on September 13, 2008 B.B King worked in the building in the 1940’s which was a Reassigned Brick cotton gin building.
B.B King. B.B. King was born September 16, 1925, After serving in World War II, Riley B. King, better known as B.B. King, became the biggest blues singer in the world. B.B. was a huge blues player he played blues R&B, soul, pop, rock, rock & roll, Jazz ,Jazz blues, electric blues. When he was a young boy his parents split, he lives with his mother in Mississippi hills. A couple years when he was nine his mother died, his dad retrieved him from a tenant farm a few years after that. Working as a farmhand on a cotton plantation in Indianola earning $22.50 a week. His Father and step mom thought blues music was a sin and that he could never play it around the house. He would go down to the end of the street and play on the corner, he made more money than he did on the plantation. His career all started when he hitchhiked to memphis TN in 1925, to pursue his music career.
Personal Life. Memphis was where every important musician of the south, and which supported a large musical community where every style of African American music could be found. B.B. stayed with his cousin Bukka White. Morning” and “three O’Clock Blues,” was his first hit, and the first songs of his to be on the radio. B.B. and his band started started touring around the country in 1956. He performed 342 one-night standing. They performed at the chitlin circuit which is a place of clubs, theaters and other places that black entertainers were allowed to perform. He spent the next decades recording and touring, playing more than 300 shows a year. Hes worked will artist from rock, pop, and country background. He won his 14th grammy Award in 2006. In the mid-1950’s B.B. was performing at a dance and Twist, Arkansas, a few fans were became unruly. Two men got into a fight and knocked over a kerosene stove, setting fire to the hall. B.B. raced outdoors to safety with everyone else, then realized that he left his most favorite possession 30$ acoustic guitar inside, so he ran inside of the burning building to save it, narrowly escaping death. When he later found out that the fight had been over a woman named lucille, he decided to give the name to his guitar to remind him never to do a crazy thing like fight over a woman. even since that that incident, each one of B.B.’s trademark gibson guitars has been named lucille.
The Movement. The First Civil Rights project they interviewed well known activist and people like B.B King, Other people were also interviewed for the people who involved for the rights of ethnic minorities Other people who were involved in movements for the rights of ethnic minorities. The next movement the AARP sponsored a bus tour to collect lost memories of history people who participated or were affected by the civil rights movement. Starting in washington D.C. all activities were held in 48 cities in the south, Midwest and west coast. The AARP would ask that people would submit their request about their experience with the civil rights movement.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1q3cyLyw-iTbO94d4vHNhcH8WKO4xDUFKRJlDsRmXrfs/edit?usp=sharin
B.B. King (J.K. & W.D.)
From deep in the plantation fields of Mississippi, a new type of music was born. The blues, a type of music thought to come from the soul, came from one man. Riley “B.B.” King started his career singing on the street of Mississippi, walking the streets playing songs for people. His music attracted both white and black crowds. This brought the community together, despite the segregation. Once people started to realize B.B.’s talent, his music spread across the country like a wildfire. This is his story.
B.B. King was born in September 16th, 1925. It was a very segregated world at the time. B.B. grew up working on a plantation. He picked cotton and got 35 cents per every 100 cotton balls he picked. This was very hard work. He left work each day with about 200 cotton balls and very raw hands. His Dad left B.B. and his mom when they divorced. He was four at this time and just five years later his mom died from sickness. He was forced to live with his grandmother in a deeply segregated area in Mississippi. He was teased and harassed for the color of his skin. This left a lasting mark on him and his opinion on segregation.
King’s music career started in the streets of Mississippi. He would play for anyone, mostly not receiving a dime. However, those who did pay him, would give him a decent amount of money. “B.B. realized that he received more money from tips then he did from working on the plantation. He then moved to Memphis, to try to gain more money and start a music career. He played his first gigs as a replacement for a guitarist from a band. Eventually, everyone wanted him to keep performing in the colored only night clubs. It was very hard for BB to get popular because only colored people listen to the blues. White people had not yet become interested in the blues. This was just the beginning of King’s adventure in music.
“B.B's first consistent job as an artist was a performer and DJ on WDIA radio station.”(Schrank) B.B was becoming very popular and his style of guitar was legendary. Everyone loved him in the black community. B.B. became a huge star in Memphis. His music started to spread around and when whites became familiar with the blues. At this time, B.B.’s music was starting to spread across the country. However, there was still segregation at his concerts, events, and everywhere aroung him.
B.B’s life revolved around segregation. “B.B was in the army for a year then left because he was tired of the segregation rules.”(Miester) B.B always stayed positive. “Back then his songs were about fun times and parties.(Mcgee.14). Even in B.B Kings concerts there were segregated areas. B.B King’s concerts and events were segregated, but everyone no matter what race, everyone enjoyed his music. B.B. King brought everyone together as a human race, simply enjoying music.
After all B.B.’s hard work, King was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. This is the highest civilian award given in the United States. B.B. was awarded this due to the extreme dedication and perseverance. He pushed through the hardships in life and was awarded for this in the end. B.B is considered the legend of the blues. The blues are more than a genre of music. The blues broke down the mental barricade of segregation. This music showed white people that colored people are capable of more than hard labor. The blues helped black people stick together through the rough times of segregation.
B.B. had a conducted his last interview with The Telegraph, a popular newspaper. He is 88 years old and is on his last concert tour. B.B is a type two diabetic but he is still standing strong. Instead of standing up and dancing to his great music, he has to sit down in a chair with his guitar slung across his lap. He says he is in no hurry for life. At the time of this article, B.B. Was about to travel on his last tour. It was an exciting yet saddening time to conclude this B.B. King's life.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D-Cg-9FZj3vkJy8VWuEG7-FlvNh8fzo7tTblVZqea7s/edit?usp=sharing
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D-Cg-9FZj3vkJy8VWuEG7-FlvNh8fzo7tTblVZqea7s/edit?usp=sharing
"We Shall Overcome" (P.S. & K.K.)
As many might not know, music influenced the Civil Rights Movement. There was one song that African-Americans really liked. The song is called “We Shall Overcome.”
Creation of the song. The song We Shall Overcome was inspired by African American gospel singing. It was formed out of several different church songs. - "I'll Overcome Some Day," "If My Jesus Wills," and "I'll Be Alright"-and the slave song "No More Auction Block for Me." Inspired by the song “We Will Overcome.” Musician Zilphia Horton introduced the song to many important people, including folk singer Pete Seeger. Pete Seeger, Zilphia Horton, Frank Hamilton, Guy Carawan were the people who made the musical and lyrical adaptation. “We Shall Overcome” was short, yet powerful. The nine simple verses of "We Shall Overcome" became a symbol for equality for people across the world.
Democratic use of the song. Even though “We Shall Overcome” has a little over 20 words, there is a much more powerful meaning. The African-Americans sung the song to emphasise their hardships fighting for civil rights. Listeners liked it because they could feel the happiness and pride. The singing was used as a political protest. Some people called it a “freedom song.” African-Americans would come together in large groups and would sing “We Shall Overcome” to help lift their spirits. People would sing this song to help promote democracy.
Political use of the song. When people listened to “We Shall Overcome,” they locked arms across their bodies and swayed. In the 1930s and 1940s it was a popular workers’ song. Pete Seeger and other folk singers adapted the words as a tribute to the civil rights struggle in 1960. It became very popular by popular artists and could be heard at all civil rights rallies. The first political use occurred in 1945 in Charleston, South Carolina. There was a strike against the American Tobacco Co. The workers wanted a raise from 45 cents an hour. They marched and sang together, "We will overcome, and we will win our rights someday."
March on Washington. During 1963, an American folk singer named Joan Baez performed the song during the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom at the U.S. capitol in Washington, D.C. Over 200,000 people were at the March on Washington. More than 200,000 black and white Americans enjoyed the joyous day of speeches, songs, and prayers led by a celebrated group of people at the event. The March on Washington was designed was for political starting of civil rights, but it was then stalled in Congress. It promoted the song because of the amount of people that were there. After the March on Washington, it was pretty popular.
Martin Luther King, Jr., first heard it at a civil rights meeting in 1957. He used its words in his last sermon previous his assassination. On April 9, 1968, at his grave, in front of the Georgia Capitol, over 50,000 sang. Dr. King gave his “I have a Dream” speech at the March on Washington. As he was leaving the podium, many of the people there started singing “We Shall Overcome.” Martin Luther King would sing the song at many civil rights events.
There has been many uses of this song during the Civil Rights Movement and the song is still used today. Some people use it as a symbol of democracy around the world. A recent example of the use of this song is Philippines Typhoon Survivors March To 'We Shall Overcome.' They were recovering from a typhoon on November 8, 2013 and used “We Shall Overcome” to boost spirits around the city of Tacloban.
Sourceshttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1K3JAeXVTVORQk-X2uWuaXgAK10z-8TCwwWdA5pMZfDs/edit?usp=sharing
Five Songs that Influenced the Civil Rights Movement (M.N. and A.E.)
Music throughout the Civil Rights Movement thoroughly impacted the Civil Rights Movement by inspiring and motivating oppressed individuals. Martin Luther King stated during the Albany movement, “The freedom songs are playing a strong and vital role in our struggle. They give the people new courage and a sense of unity. I think they keep alive a faith, a radiant hope, in the future, particularly in our most trying hours”(King, Albany Movement). Specific genres such as Jazz and the Blues allowed the oppressed to express their struggles and transform them into beautiful, motivational pieces.
1. “We Shall Overcome”
“We Shall Overcome” was one of the most important and influential songs of the Civil Rights Movement. Initially, “We Shall Overcome” arose as an early gospel song called “I'll Overcome Someday", by the African-American composer Charles Albert. The song evolved at Highlander Folk Schools during the labor struggles of the 1940’s. From then on, We Shall Overcome became the unofficial anthem of the Civil Rights Movement. The influential power of this ballad is absolutely phenomenal. The executive director of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, (SCLC) stated, ‘‘One cannot describe the vitality and emotion this one song evokes across the Southland. I have heard it sung in great mass meetings with a thousand voices singing as one; I’ve heard a half-dozen sing it softly behind the bars of the Hinds County prison in Mississippi; I’ve heard old women singing it on the way to work in Albany, Georgia; I’ve heard the students singing it as they were being dragged away to jail. It generates power that is indescribable” (Ahman SCLC).
“We Shall Overcome” was one of the most important and influential songs of the Civil Rights Movement. Initially, “We Shall Overcome” arose as an early gospel song called “I'll Overcome Someday", by the African-American composer Charles Albert. The song evolved at Highlander Folk Schools during the labor struggles of the 1940’s. From then on, We Shall Overcome became the unofficial anthem of the Civil Rights Movement. The influential power of this ballad is absolutely phenomenal. The executive director of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, (SCLC) stated, ‘‘One cannot describe the vitality and emotion this one song evokes across the Southland. I have heard it sung in great mass meetings with a thousand voices singing as one; I’ve heard a half-dozen sing it softly behind the bars of the Hinds County prison in Mississippi; I’ve heard old women singing it on the way to work in Albany, Georgia; I’ve heard the students singing it as they were being dragged away to jail. It generates power that is indescribable” (Ahman SCLC).
2. “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke
“A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke was #12 on Rolling Stone’s Top 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. “When Sam Cooke sang what became the unofficial anthem of the civil rights movement, ‘A Change Is Gonna Come,’ it portended sweeping social progress that played out over the next half-century” (Watson Buffalo News, NY) “A Change is Gonna Come” was written at the end of 1963, an especially violent year for civil rights. After the march on Birmingham, the 16th Street Birmingham Church bombing, and the killing of John F Kennedy, a sense of anxiety resonated in the blacks as they desperately needed inspiration to continue with their struggle. ‘A Change is Gonna Come’ became that much-needed influence only two weeks after its release, engulfing the oppressed with beliefs that their struggle was a worthy cause. Alternatively, Barack Obama referenced to ‘A Change is Gonna Come’ in his 2008 inaugural speech, stating “It's been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America” (Obama, Inaugural Speech).
“A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke was #12 on Rolling Stone’s Top 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. “When Sam Cooke sang what became the unofficial anthem of the civil rights movement, ‘A Change Is Gonna Come,’ it portended sweeping social progress that played out over the next half-century” (Watson Buffalo News, NY) “A Change is Gonna Come” was written at the end of 1963, an especially violent year for civil rights. After the march on Birmingham, the 16th Street Birmingham Church bombing, and the killing of John F Kennedy, a sense of anxiety resonated in the blacks as they desperately needed inspiration to continue with their struggle. ‘A Change is Gonna Come’ became that much-needed influence only two weeks after its release, engulfing the oppressed with beliefs that their struggle was a worthy cause. Alternatively, Barack Obama referenced to ‘A Change is Gonna Come’ in his 2008 inaugural speech, stating “It's been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America” (Obama, Inaugural Speech).
3. “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by James Weldon Johnson and J Rosamond Johnson
“Lift Every Voice and Sing” was originally a poem written by brothers, James Weldon Johnson and J Rosamond Johnson. Initially, James W. Johnson was asked to compose this poem for President Abraham Lincoln’s birthday on February 12, 1900. 500 students gathered to recite this ballad at Jacksonville, Florida and ever since has been named the official Negro National Anthem. Eventually, it was adopted as the anthem for the National Association of the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The lyrics of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’, managed to accomplish to connect to all the oppressed Blacks of America. It convinced them to believe that their rightful home was America, and someday, they would achieve the freedom for which they have struggled for for so long.
“Lift Every Voice and Sing” was originally a poem written by brothers, James Weldon Johnson and J Rosamond Johnson. Initially, James W. Johnson was asked to compose this poem for President Abraham Lincoln’s birthday on February 12, 1900. 500 students gathered to recite this ballad at Jacksonville, Florida and ever since has been named the official Negro National Anthem. Eventually, it was adopted as the anthem for the National Association of the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The lyrics of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’, managed to accomplish to connect to all the oppressed Blacks of America. It convinced them to believe that their rightful home was America, and someday, they would achieve the freedom for which they have struggled for for so long.
4. “The Times they are a Changin” by Bob Dylan
“The Times they are a Changin” was and continued to be immensely influential to the overall public views in society. The inspirational lyrics greatly contribute to the song's message of change. Additionally, the lyrics reflect the views on social injustices and the government’s unhelpful attitude towards change. “Come senators, congressmen Please heed the call, Don't stand in the doorway, Don't block up the hall, For he that gets hurt, Will be he who has stalled, There's a battle outside, and it is ragin”(Dylan). Throughout his activism time period, Bob Dylan was crowned as the “voice of the generation”. Then, when asked about his new protest attitude and “The Times they are a Changin” he stated, "Well, you know, it seems to be what the people like to hear” (Dylan).
“The Times they are a Changin” was and continued to be immensely influential to the overall public views in society. The inspirational lyrics greatly contribute to the song's message of change. Additionally, the lyrics reflect the views on social injustices and the government’s unhelpful attitude towards change. “Come senators, congressmen Please heed the call, Don't stand in the doorway, Don't block up the hall, For he that gets hurt, Will be he who has stalled, There's a battle outside, and it is ragin”(Dylan). Throughout his activism time period, Bob Dylan was crowned as the “voice of the generation”. Then, when asked about his new protest attitude and “The Times they are a Changin” he stated, "Well, you know, it seems to be what the people like to hear” (Dylan).
5. “We Shall Not Be Moved”
“We Shall Not Be Moved” was originally a slave labor song, but has since then been sung by many famous singers, such as Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley. It influenced many marches and protests to uphold a strong belief in nonviolence. Nonviolence played a major role in protests for civil rights. Many different variations of this song have been sung at pro-union rallies and at civil rights rallies & marches. “We Shall Not Be Moved” represents the determination of the protesters, especially with protests like sit-ins that were founded on patience and peacefulness.
“We Shall Not Be Moved” was originally a slave labor song, but has since then been sung by many famous singers, such as Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley. It influenced many marches and protests to uphold a strong belief in nonviolence. Nonviolence played a major role in protests for civil rights. Many different variations of this song have been sung at pro-union rallies and at civil rights rallies & marches. “We Shall Not Be Moved” represents the determination of the protesters, especially with protests like sit-ins that were founded on patience and peacefulness.
Current Day Implications
In Performance at the White House: A Celebration of Music from the Civil Rights Movement
In honor of Black History month, President Obama hosted a concert at the White House on February 9, 2010. This concert was the fifth in the “In Performance at the White House” series, a compilation of concerts which retell and embrace the musical culture of America’s past. Many artists and speech writers who attended this event included Yolanda Adams, Joan Baez, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Bob Dylan, Freedom Singers, Morgan Freeman, John Legend, Queen Latifah, Jennifer Hudson, and Seal. Some of these artists had even sung at the march at Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King had given his famous, “I Have a Dream” speech 47 years earlier.
In Performance at the White House: A Celebration of Music from the Civil Rights Movement
In honor of Black History month, President Obama hosted a concert at the White House on February 9, 2010. This concert was the fifth in the “In Performance at the White House” series, a compilation of concerts which retell and embrace the musical culture of America’s past. Many artists and speech writers who attended this event included Yolanda Adams, Joan Baez, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Bob Dylan, Freedom Singers, Morgan Freeman, John Legend, Queen Latifah, Jennifer Hudson, and Seal. Some of these artists had even sung at the march at Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King had given his famous, “I Have a Dream” speech 47 years earlier.
5 Songs that Influenced the Civil Rights Movement (R.H. & A.M.)
During the Civil Rights movements, and many other protests, a rhythm is key. Music is a need in a time of despair to uplift the masses, and bring hope to the despaired. For instance, slaves used to use music to lift the hearts of the despaired. “The slaves used American farm tools and kitchen utensils to make music” (The Story of Music 5) Specifically in the Civil Rights Movement, those who were segregated or discriminated against would sing in times of worry, and in times of joy. Song carried them through their struggle and emphasized their triumph. These are the songs that have helped cause change that was well needed.
1. Get Back by: Big Bill Broonzy
Much of Mr. Broonzy is disputed. No one really knows where he was born, or when his famous song Get Back (originally titled Black, Brown, White) was written. The tune was sung by multiple vocal artists, and was titled Black, Brown, and White under their representations of the song. Originally appearing in print in 1946 on the October Bulletin of People’s songs, and was later sang by Brownie McGhee in 1947, and by Pete Seeger in 1948. Finally in 1958, after his death, a version sung by Bill titled Get Back was released (The title was changed to Black, Brown, White when released). The tune took so long to release from Mr. Broonzy, due to the fact that no record label would publish the song. They claimed it wouldn’t sell. That was until Big Bill Broonzy recorded for Mercury company (whose vice president has been african american). The song spoke of Bill’s worry of african american veterans being discriminated, and not accepted the same as white soldiers after serving in World War II. The song was later adapted to encourage supporters of the civil rights movement.
Much of Mr. Broonzy is disputed. No one really knows where he was born, or when his famous song Get Back (originally titled Black, Brown, White) was written. The tune was sung by multiple vocal artists, and was titled Black, Brown, and White under their representations of the song. Originally appearing in print in 1946 on the October Bulletin of People’s songs, and was later sang by Brownie McGhee in 1947, and by Pete Seeger in 1948. Finally in 1958, after his death, a version sung by Bill titled Get Back was released (The title was changed to Black, Brown, White when released). The tune took so long to release from Mr. Broonzy, due to the fact that no record label would publish the song. They claimed it wouldn’t sell. That was until Big Bill Broonzy recorded for Mercury company (whose vice president has been african american). The song spoke of Bill’s worry of african american veterans being discriminated, and not accepted the same as white soldiers after serving in World War II. The song was later adapted to encourage supporters of the civil rights movement.
2. We Shall Overcome: Highlander Folk School
A song loved by many protesters during the movement for equal treatment, it was recreated by the Highlander Folk School during the 1940s labor struggles. The song was reinvented by Zilphia Horton, and taught to protesters during the 1940s protests of unequal treatment of workers (Primarily used when protesting unequal treatment of african american women). She then taught the song to Pete Seeger, who sang the modern day interpretation used during the Civil Rights movement. When Wyatt T. Walker, Executive Director of Martin Luther King Jr’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) spoke of the song, he stated “One cannot describe the vitality and emotion this one song evokes across the Southland. I have heard it sung in great mass meetings with a thousand voices singing as one; I’ve heard a half-dozen sing it softly behind the bars of the Hinds County prison in Mississippi; I’ve heard old women singing it on the way to work in Albany, Georgia; I’ve heard the students singing it as they were being dragged away to jail. It generates power that is indescribable” (“Songs and the Civil”)
A song loved by many protesters during the movement for equal treatment, it was recreated by the Highlander Folk School during the 1940s labor struggles. The song was reinvented by Zilphia Horton, and taught to protesters during the 1940s protests of unequal treatment of workers (Primarily used when protesting unequal treatment of african american women). She then taught the song to Pete Seeger, who sang the modern day interpretation used during the Civil Rights movement. When Wyatt T. Walker, Executive Director of Martin Luther King Jr’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) spoke of the song, he stated “One cannot describe the vitality and emotion this one song evokes across the Southland. I have heard it sung in great mass meetings with a thousand voices singing as one; I’ve heard a half-dozen sing it softly behind the bars of the Hinds County prison in Mississippi; I’ve heard old women singing it on the way to work in Albany, Georgia; I’ve heard the students singing it as they were being dragged away to jail. It generates power that is indescribable” (“Songs and the Civil”)
3. Will The Circle Be Unbroken? by Ada R Habershon (adapted by others for Civil Rights movement)
This Christian folk song, written by Ada R Habershon, was very popular among churches in the 1950’s. This song is slower and more poetic than the other songs of this era, which tend to be upbeat or quick-paced. The lyrics are about the continued oppression of blacks and sang of hope for the future and of heaven. Although originally meant to represent the oppression of slaves, it was easily adapted to represent the fight for civil rights. Many protesters adapted the song and applied it to their marches or boycotts in order to show that an upbeat song was not how they felt about the issues, instead, they felt very sorrowful and solem.
This Christian folk song, written by Ada R Habershon, was very popular among churches in the 1950’s. This song is slower and more poetic than the other songs of this era, which tend to be upbeat or quick-paced. The lyrics are about the continued oppression of blacks and sang of hope for the future and of heaven. Although originally meant to represent the oppression of slaves, it was easily adapted to represent the fight for civil rights. Many protesters adapted the song and applied it to their marches or boycotts in order to show that an upbeat song was not how they felt about the issues, instead, they felt very sorrowful and solem.
4. Ain’t Nobody Gonna Turn Me ‘Round by Charles Neblett, Cordell Reagon, Bernice Johnson, and Rutha Mae Harris
Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around is a song that was adopted by the Civil Rights movement in Albany, Georgia in the early 1960’s. It was created by the SNCC Freedom Singers to educate the children of the mistreatment of african americans. The sung became the unofficial anthem of Albany. The four traveled around the U.S. singing and speaking about social injustice at over 200 colleges. As the song became more popular, different additions were made to the song. For instance, one version of the song stated, “Ain’t gonna let Chief Prittchet turn me round’ In reference to Albany Chief of Police Laurie Pritchett” (Weber) The song was sung by many protesters as they marched throughout the south. The lyrics of this song apply specifically to protesting, speaking of refusing to give up or give in to those who would oppress them. Despite this strong and powerful message, this song does not speak of violence towards the oppressors or towards those mentioned in the addition versions. (Chief Prittchet version)
Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around is a song that was adopted by the Civil Rights movement in Albany, Georgia in the early 1960’s. It was created by the SNCC Freedom Singers to educate the children of the mistreatment of african americans. The sung became the unofficial anthem of Albany. The four traveled around the U.S. singing and speaking about social injustice at over 200 colleges. As the song became more popular, different additions were made to the song. For instance, one version of the song stated, “Ain’t gonna let Chief Prittchet turn me round’ In reference to Albany Chief of Police Laurie Pritchett” (Weber) The song was sung by many protesters as they marched throughout the south. The lyrics of this song apply specifically to protesting, speaking of refusing to give up or give in to those who would oppress them. Despite this strong and powerful message, this song does not speak of violence towards the oppressors or towards those mentioned in the addition versions. (Chief Prittchet version)
5. My People Will Rise by Albert Wood
My People Will Rise was an extremely popular song in the 1960’s, and was widely sung and known. This song contrasts most other civil rights songs, singing of pride and confidence that the blacks shall ‘rise’ or be free from oppression. It is different because of the context of the words, and the themes and opinions inside. In the lyrics, the songs expresses assurance that ‘my people will rise’, meaning that the blacks would be free, truly, one day. A cheerful song, it speaks of ‘drying your eyes’ and even of women’s rights, which was also on the rise during this period. “They say that women are weak And you know that's wrong (so wrong)” (My People Will Rise). This song not only influenced hope and pride into the blacks who were oppressed, but also started gathering support for the rights of women. It spread quickly throughout the south, as well as the north, and can be considered a major factor in the movements for both the rights of blacks and of women.
Modern Day Connection/Conclusion
As it has been shown, music is a form of print that can uplift the hearts of many oppressed. A well written and paced song can cause masses to shift opinions in a conflict. and even though the Civil Rights movement ended almost fifty years ago, the songs that helped push it forwards continue to be sung today and recognized for their impact on the nation. Many churches/congregations sing these songs or have turned them into hymns of thankfulness. The original meaning may not be as applicable today, where equality is a reality, but should be and are recognized for the role they played. One modern instance where equality was not displayed as we view it, was in the 2013 Video game Bioshock: Infinite. “The hymn (Will the Circle be Unbroken) is featured in the soundtrack for the 2013 video game, BioShock: Infinite, performed by Troy Baker (guitar) and Courtnee Draper, the voice actors of main characters Booker and Elizabeth. The song won ‘the Best Song in a Game’ award during the VGX 2013 (formerly known as Video Game Awards) ” (Wikipedia). The ability to be able to still listen to these songs and learn from their meaning is a true gift. The impact they had truly shows that even things as simple as music can be utilized by human imagination and used to hold together and drive forward a nation. “The freedom songs are playing a strong role in our struggle. The give the people a new courage and sense of unity. I think they keep alive a faith, a radiant hope in the future, particularly in our most trying hours” (Martin Luther King Junior).
Sources:https://docs.google.com/document/d/16pWrA29qv4pJRDYwZODwbH8IPyWVc4VMr9whvNriQb0/edit
As it has been shown, music is a form of print that can uplift the hearts of many oppressed. A well written and paced song can cause masses to shift opinions in a conflict. and even though the Civil Rights movement ended almost fifty years ago, the songs that helped push it forwards continue to be sung today and recognized for their impact on the nation. Many churches/congregations sing these songs or have turned them into hymns of thankfulness. The original meaning may not be as applicable today, where equality is a reality, but should be and are recognized for the role they played. One modern instance where equality was not displayed as we view it, was in the 2013 Video game Bioshock: Infinite. “The hymn (Will the Circle be Unbroken) is featured in the soundtrack for the 2013 video game, BioShock: Infinite, performed by Troy Baker (guitar) and Courtnee Draper, the voice actors of main characters Booker and Elizabeth. The song won ‘the Best Song in a Game’ award during the VGX 2013 (formerly known as Video Game Awards) ” (Wikipedia). The ability to be able to still listen to these songs and learn from their meaning is a true gift. The impact they had truly shows that even things as simple as music can be utilized by human imagination and used to hold together and drive forward a nation. “The freedom songs are playing a strong role in our struggle. The give the people a new courage and sense of unity. I think they keep alive a faith, a radiant hope in the future, particularly in our most trying hours” (Martin Luther King Junior).
Sources:https://docs.google.com/document/d/16pWrA29qv4pJRDYwZODwbH8IPyWVc4VMr9whvNriQb0/edit
5 Songs that Impacted the Civil Rights Movement (A.A. & E.R.)
Music has always been a part of people’s lives whether it’s hip-hop, rap, country, or gospel. Music has always had its effects on people, whether it was good or bad. Believe it or not, music was an important part of the Civil Rights’ Movement. Below are five important songs that took part in influencing the Civil Rights' Movement.
- “The Times They Are A Changin’”
- “Lift Every Voice and Sing”
- “People Get Ready”
- “People Get Ready”
“People get ready” is a song by The Impressions, an all black music group that formed in Chicago in 1958. This inspirational song was a musical companion to the Civil Rights Movement. This song was written about the March on Washington about a year after. “It captured the spirit of the march,” Some people said. “The song reaches across racial and religious lines to offer a message of redemption and forgiveness.” In addition to the March on Washington, this song followed major events in the Civil Rights’ Movement such as the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, which killed four little girls, and the assassination of President Kennedy.- “People Get Ready”
- “We Shall Overcome”
- Present day Implication