American Classics With a Yiddish Accent
Monday, January 25, 2010
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Irving Berlin
From "Embraceable You" to "Stormy Weather," many of the best-known works in the American songbook were written by Jewish songwriters. Today: tracing the Jewish heritage of beloved songs. Also: the outspoken singer Toshi Reagon brings her booming, earthy voice to our studio with a live performance.
Jewish Culture and the American Songbook.
Some of the greatest songs of the 20th century are filled with Jewish DNA. Today: the hidden Yiddish accent behind "Embraceable You," the early songs of Bob Dylan, and other classics. We're joined by David Lehman, author of A Fine Romance: Jewish Songwriters, American Songs.
Soundcheck's Picks of the Week
This week's picks draw on a Czech artist inspired by the Spanish language, soundtrack music from an Icelandic composer, and folk-pop from Portland, Ore. Read full reviews of our picks.
Marta Topferova – Trova (World Village) – picked by Gisele Regatao
Valgeir Sigurðsson –Draumalandið (Dreamland), (Bedroom Community) ...
Marta Topferova – Trova (World Village) – picked by Gisele Regatao
Valgeir Sigurðsson –Draumalandið (Dreamland), (Bedroom Community) ...
Toshi Reagon
Toshi Reagon’s parents were part of the Freedom Singers, who fought for Civil Rights in the '60s. Her mother was also a founding member of Sweet Honey in the Rock. Since Toshi dropped out of college to open for Lenny Kravitz’s tour in 1990, she has written songs that mix ...
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