Photo by Louis Velazquez on Unsplash
Most Americans don’t realize that music has not only been written in response to politics – it has actually instigated political and legislative change. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the US, Dr. Anna Harwell Celenza reveals surprising stories of music that sparked debates, influenced lawmakers, shaped policy, and changed America.
Guest
The stories behind some of these songs are told in the fascinating new book, On the Record: Music that Changed America, by Dr. Anna Harwell Celenza. Dr. Celenza is with me today; she is a musicologist and historian, and professor at Johns Hopkins University, where she teaches Creative Writing and Music History.
Notes
We discuss:
- How music has influenced American legislation and political change, going far beyond simply reflecting the culture of its time.
- The distinction between music that is written in response to politics and music that actually instigates political change.
- How certain musical compositions have sparked debates in Congress and contributed to changes in American policy and legislation.
- The surprising ways music has given voice to people and communities who might otherwise have gone unheard.
- Musical stories connected to major issues including immigration, race relations, intellectual property, the environment, foreign policy, national identity, and democracy.
- Why music’s unique emotional and cultural power can make it an effective agent of social and political change.
- How the political influence of music has evolved in the age of streaming, social media, and fragmented audiences.
- Dr. Anna Harwell Celenza’s work with Music Policy Forum and Music Censuses.
Connect/Other Resources
- Anna’s website
- Book: On the Record: Music that Changed America
- All Dr. Celenza’s books
- Music Policy Forum
Other episodes we mentioned or that you may enjoy:
- Micro 53: The Power of Music in Political Discourse
- Ep. 101: #HowDidThatHappen: The Star Spangled Banner, with author Tim Grove
- Micro 63: America the Beautiful – The Song That Almost Became Our National Anthem
- Ep. 134: How did music shape the exploration and settling of America’s west? The musical story within the Westward Expansion story; with author Laura Dean
- Ep. 35: Oxytocin and dopamine in times of social-distancing; and how does music give us the chills? With Indre Viskontas
- View all episodes related to Education & Community
In-Episode Promo
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Coda
Dr. Celenza explains the importance of musicians making themselves aware of – and engaging in – their local politics. Regulatory changes in things like transportation, noise ordinances, building codes, education, tax code, etc. can have a HUGE impact on local music ecosystems.
Closing Words
Thanks Dr. Celenza for that timely resource – and for the fascinating book!
If you know of someone who would enjoy this episode, please share it with them! It’s one of the best ways to help us reach new listeners and spread the transforming power of music in everyday life.
You can always connect with me on email (mindy@mpetersonmusic.com), Facebook, Instagram, X, or LinkedIn; and by signing up for my occasional e-Newsletter.
Thank you so much for joining me today. Until next time, may your life be enhanced with music.
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