Overview
Music is a tremendously powerful art form. Songs can express how we feel, reflect our living conditions, and influence perspectives. Woody Guthrie (1912–1967) was one of the most significant folk musicians in U.S. history. Guthrie’s songs tell the stories of struggle and oppression faced by migrant and poor families during the Dust Bowl era,1930–1936, in the United States. Guthrie used his music to express political dissent and protest economic issues and war. Think about the songs you’ve encountered that express strong perspectives about current issues in society.
To prepare:
Review these resources for our Week 3 Discussion:
This machine kills fascists: The life and music of Woody Guthrie
Post at least three paragraphs responding to the following questions.
What contemporary song do you feel expresses strong opinions about current social issues?
What lyrics of the song do you feel are most impactful, and why?
Do you feel today’s music is more concerned or less concerned with social issues than the music of Woody Guthrie’s day? Why or why not?