Apropos of Labor Day, from Billy Bragg.
Music
Give Me Something To Believe In
She Drew The Gun plays at the Glastonbury Festival’s 2016 Emerging Talent Competition.
Warm up your Friday a bit.
We Can Be Together
This has long been one of my favorite Jefferson Airplane songs, and I love this demo version from Paul Kantner. It’s amazing that all of the harmonic and rhythmic elements of the song were there right from the start.
I wasn’t able to find proper guitar tabs for this online, but as nearly as I can tell, he’s dropped both E strings on the guitar to D, so I’m experimenting with that tuning this week.
For Katharina Jacob
On this International Women’s Day 2016, we honor our departed comrade Katharina Jacob, who fought the good fight against the Nazis. Asked if the sacrifice was worth it, she said this.
The Resistance fighters put their lives on the line for humanity and peace. My husband fell on this front. I also followed my conscience and convictions. The decision was not easy. But to see wrong and do nothing about it? I had to be able to face myself and my children.
This beautiful song from David Rovics is a fitting tribute and remembrance.
L’Internationale
This short film by Peter Miller documents the history and spirit of the great socialist hymn.
Glory Hallelujah
A Song Apropos of the Day: John Brown by David Rovics
From Dublin City to San Diego
David Rovics sings of the Saint Patrick Battalion, in concert at Belfast.
With a Single Voice Like Thunder
Here’s another brilliant and inspiring song from Matthew Grimm.
“If your enemies are firefighters, teachers and nurses, your enemy is everyone.”
Video: Complete SXSW Tom Morello Set
In this hour-long set from Rolling Stone’s Rock Room day party, Tom Morello burns through a string of modern protest songs. His headlining gig at the Occupy SXSW showcase had been busted up by cops the night before.
Abraham, Martin and John
Dion’s recording of Abraham, Martin and John was one of the very first 45s I bought as a kid. Though the video quality of this clip is suboptimal, the performance is wonderful. Apropos of the day…