This land is your land ...

Woody Guthrie was born 100 years ago today. As a tribute I’ve found a clip …

Growing up I was greatly influenced by him and others who were inspired to do what they did because of him and his friend and contemporary Pete Seeger. He was one of the inspirations for the young Robert Zimmerman to become Bob Dylan. Bruce Springsteen pays tribute to them both in the Seeger Sessions.

Sadly Woody developed Huntington’s Chorea and died aged 55. His daughter has given Billy Bragg access to his writings and lyrics some of which he has set to music.

Some of the lyrics are as relevant today as they were 70 years ago when they were first written.

My strong sense of social justice, which goes way beyond any particular political viewpoint, began at home with my parents, and as we sang folk and protest songs at my chapel youth club. Religion wasn’t a big part of this and we were all very earnest and wanted to change the world. We would change the words of ‘This land’ to the places in Wales, although I think the places are symbolic and we can all identify with them.

I would like to think that we’ve all done something to change just a little bit of our world for the better…

Monday music .......... my desert island disc collection part 2

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOB!

70 ON TUESDAY.

Bob Dylan has always been a favourite of mine. We've had  blips in our relationship from time to time, but I still find it hard to forget just how good his music and poetry is.

In 2009 we went to a concert in Birmingham. I was really, really, REALLY excited! A Bob Dylan concert was high on my list of MDBID's.

We were so disappointed! The sound quality wasn't as good as we are used to and unfortunately we looked at the back of Bob's head for all but one number. I remember reading somewhere that Dylan had problems with arthritis, so it is perhaps understandable that he mainly used the key board and only played guitar once. Even some of his classic songs were almost unrecognisable.

However, this is only my opinion and I know that there were thousands of very happy fans there. I think I was expecting something different. Perhaps I'm stuck in the past and Dylan has moved on with his music.
I remember reading in the 70's about a fan uprising (Manchester I think) when his music became more electric than acoustic. I actually enjoy both.

Still,  for me his music is timeless even though has changed constantly over the years. I would be taking some with me to the island. It is difficult to choose one piece - so I'm cheating a bit!

When I was searching  youtube for a video I came across this..............

Now anyone who knows me will tell you that I am not your typical 'rule breaker', but it was nearly impossible to find a clip of a whole Dylan song, apart from this.........

Forever Young

Do you have a favourite Dylan track? 

I would also like to own some of his art work, but even limited prints are really expensive.