Nina- Although she is often cited as a significant influence by many artists, I am not familiar with her music. My first impression of this song was from the title and was, “Wow, that’s a ballsy title for a song from the early 1960’s.” And even more ballsy coming from a black woman. Structured in several parts, the opening had a jaunty bounce and in clear language lays out the theme. She sprinkles in bits of current events (i.e. Governor Wallace). The song takes a bit of a turn which made me think it was going to be a mini-operetta though it returns fairly quickly to the theme. I was thinking about this song in contrast to a more obliquely rendered protest song like “Strange Fruit.” Super-impressed with her demeanor and confidence and send of defiance at the end. This is one where the live performance and video was a plus.
Nina Simone – Mississippi Goddam
Dear God – what a way to start the round. I’ve become a fan over the last few years. Her unique voice can be a bit of an acquired taste, but, especially on this number, she uses her instrument to bring the lyrics alive. A jaunty bit of music that belies its critical message. Wow.
They Might Be Giants – Your Racist Friend
I was thinking I needed this lighter bit, but in a similar vein as the previous tune, its musical tone serves as a backdrop for serious matters. I know it well, but I’ll give it a fresh listen….
Yep, still great. Flood, the album on which this appeared, is one of my favorites. [Had the pleasure of attending their show in Philly, with the esteemed Alan, in the past coupla years during which they played every song from it – including one that they played completely backwards.] That said, at this point they were not playing with a band, just two guys putting together their wonderful madness – I remain impressed by what they were able to accomplish musically. Sometimes their lyrics can be tough to interpret, but the message on this one rings pretty clearly.
“Your Racist Friend”/TMBG. Must admit I had not listened to this song closely before. The verses are sort of funky, with accordions, and an island-flavored chorus, then there’s the crazy back to back breakdowns, one with guitar shredding, then like a calpyso horn (?) interlude. Ah, TMBG! I don’t know who else would have thought of it, let alone tried it. And in addition to the plainly stated anti-racist theme, the lyrics do a good job of sketching an exceedingly awkward interaction at an otherwise enjoyable house party.
“Mississippi Goddam” by Nina Simone: I like the way the Goddam phrase rings out in the chorus. Powerful, brave story telling that tells the truth. We need more of this; Goddam we do.
“Your Racist Friend” by They Might Be Giants: I do know this one. Excellent Track and a song that comes to mind when I think of this band. The horns kick it up a notch.
Nina- Although she is often cited as a significant influence by many artists, I am not familiar with her music. My first impression of this song was from the title and was, “Wow, that’s a ballsy title for a song from the early 1960’s.” And even more ballsy coming from a black woman. Structured in several parts, the opening had a jaunty bounce and in clear language lays out the theme. She sprinkles in bits of current events (i.e. Governor Wallace). The song takes a bit of a turn which made me think it was going to be a mini-operetta though it returns fairly quickly to the theme. I was thinking about this song in contrast to a more obliquely rendered protest song like “Strange Fruit.” Super-impressed with her demeanor and confidence and send of defiance at the end. This is one where the live performance and video was a plus.
NS – Goddamn!
TMBG – Not familiar with their work. I have heard of them though. Has a very similar feel to the dead milkmen, Primus and Cake.
Nina Simone – Mississippi Goddam
Dear God – what a way to start the round. I’ve become a fan over the last few years. Her unique voice can be a bit of an acquired taste, but, especially on this number, she uses her instrument to bring the lyrics alive. A jaunty bit of music that belies its critical message. Wow.
They Might Be Giants – Your Racist Friend
I was thinking I needed this lighter bit, but in a similar vein as the previous tune, its musical tone serves as a backdrop for serious matters. I know it well, but I’ll give it a fresh listen….
Yep, still great. Flood, the album on which this appeared, is one of my favorites. [Had the pleasure of attending their show in Philly, with the esteemed Alan, in the past coupla years during which they played every song from it – including one that they played completely backwards.] That said, at this point they were not playing with a band, just two guys putting together their wonderful madness – I remain impressed by what they were able to accomplish musically. Sometimes their lyrics can be tough to interpret, but the message on this one rings pretty clearly.
What a start to the round!
“Your Racist Friend”/TMBG. Must admit I had not listened to this song closely before. The verses are sort of funky, with accordions, and an island-flavored chorus, then there’s the crazy back to back breakdowns, one with guitar shredding, then like a calpyso horn (?) interlude. Ah, TMBG! I don’t know who else would have thought of it, let alone tried it. And in addition to the plainly stated anti-racist theme, the lyrics do a good job of sketching an exceedingly awkward interaction at an otherwise enjoyable house party.
“Mississippi Goddam” by Nina Simone: I like the way the Goddam phrase rings out in the chorus. Powerful, brave story telling that tells the truth. We need more of this; Goddam we do.
“Your Racist Friend” by They Might Be Giants: I do know this one. Excellent Track and a song that comes to mind when I think of this band. The horns kick it up a notch.