Archives, episode 38, Jazz and Politics, Part 1

Since we’re in the midst of a federal election here in Canada, I thought I could revisit part 1 of my four-part series from last year on the role of jazz in promoting social and political activism. I address topics of civil rights, diplomacy during the cold war, the interconnectedness between motherhood, mother earth, and social justice or the needs of the people.  Also Cuba, the domination of money over everything and the lack of empathy on the part of the powers that be for the population, are all explored here. You’ll hear music by Billie Holiday, Mose Allison, Oscar Peterson, Jazzmeia Horn, Yasek Monzano, and the Liberation Music Orchestra, plus a voice clip from Arturo O’Farrill talking about Cuban musicians who have betrayed Cuba.