MLK & the Blues: Music of the Civil Right Movement

What was the role of blues and swing during the civil rights movement? Who are some of the musicians who used their music to speak out on injustices? What were the freedom songs about? Healdsburg Jazz Artistic Director Marcus Shelby will answer these questions and more in a presentation and interactive listening session and discussion on the legacy and role of music during the civil rights movement led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Music composed and recorded by Charles Mingus, Sonny Rollins, Abbey Lincoln, Max Roach, Nina Simone, John Coltrane, and many others will be featured including rare videos. The presentation will feature freedom songs, spirituals, rhythm and blues, and other forms of black music that was the source of inspiration during the movement. Additionally, Marcus Shelby will interview special guest artist Terrie Odabi (one of the most preeminent blues singers in the country) who will talk about her upcoming MLK Family Day Concert “Songs of Resistance” for Healdsburg Jazz.