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Soundcheck

Wednesday, September 26, 2007
  • Steve Earle
    Steve Earle

    Protest Music for a New Generation

    The Iraq War, terrorism, and Katrina have all inspired plenty of political music. But many protest songs are purposefully vague, avoiding preachy messages or obvious slogans. Today, we look at the new breed of protest songs with singer and activist Steve Earle and Pitchfork Media writer Chris Dahlen. Also: Bossa Nova has its roots in early 60's Brazil. On her new album, "The New Bossa Nova," Brazilian singer Luciana Souza gives the genre an update as she covers material by Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Sting, Elliott Smith, Steely Dan and others.

Songs of Protest

If the purpose of political songs are to rouse people into action, then today's breed of political musicians aren't doing a very good job, says writer Chris Dahlen in a recent column for Pitchfork Media. Dahlen joins us today to talk about how political music is changing and what's needed in the future. Also joining us is singer-songwriter and activist Steve Earle, whose last two albums were heavily political in nature.

Weigh in: Do you like protest songs? Can they be effective in prompting political change?

Panic Ain't a Slogan

Steve Earle on Musical Activism

Singer-songwriter and activist Steve Earle has made several albums of in-your-face songs about the Bush administration and other political issues. But on his latest, "Washington Square Serenade," he's less the political provocateur than a sociological observer. He explains why.

Steve Earle's web site
Steve Earle at the 92nd Street Y

Luciana Souza

If you thought there wasn't much new to say about bossa nova, consider Brazilian singer and composer Luciana Souza. She unveils fresh angles on the genre with "The New Bossa Nova," an album featuring songs by Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Sting, Elliott Smith, Steely Dan and others. She joins us to share songs from the new album today.

Luciana Souza's Web site

Best Live Performances of 2008

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We revisit memorable in-studio performances from Toumani Diabaté, Cat Power, Regina Spektor, and others.

The Year in Music and Branding

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Pop music and advertising go together like peanut butter and jelly. Grey Group music director Josh Rabinowitz shares his picks for the best song picks and ad campaigns of 2008.

Critics Week

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Music writers look back at the year's best pop, rock, hip hop, classical, jazz, Latin and world albums. Plus: the worst music of the year and the best online music. Read our critics' lists here. And don't forget to cast your vote in our best-albums poll.

Noteworthy New York

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We have invited musicians and artists to help us select their favorite cultural destination in the neighborhood where they live. From parks and coffee shops to bowling alleys and museums, the options are as diverse as our group of contributors.