While music has often been used as a rallying cry by musicians and politicians alike, last year's presidential election saw the musical community organize in new and compelling ways around a variety of social, political, and religious issues. On this Election Day Smackdown, we debate the role and impact that politics plays in music. Also: Composer and pianist Vijay Iyer performs songs from his new album, Historicity, live in our studio.
Musician Activists: Passion or Publicity?
Last year's presidential election brought out a groundswell of political action by musicians. This year, the causes are lower in profile: Singer Will.i.Am is pushing for health care reform. Trent Reznor, R.E.M. and Pearl Jam are joining a movement to close Guantanamo. But can they effect any real change?
Vijay Iyer
Composer and pianist Vijay Iyer has long mixed two genres in his work: jazz and Indian music. On his latest album, Historicity, he not only covers the jazz standards, but also sets his sight on popular music with covers of songs by M.I.A and Stevie Wonder. He performs lives in ...