James Baldwin's America

James Baldwin was one of the most important writers and activists of the 20th century. In James Baldwin's America, Jesse James will discuss the importance of Baldwin's work in our current social and political climate. Baldwin's reach in society was far and wide, and to gain a complete picture of Baldwin a variety of subjects will be continually addressed including music, religion, and the world Baldwin struggled against daily for over 60 years.

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James Baldwin's America

Craig Werner and Black Music

August 17, 2020 • Jesse James • Season 1 • Episode 8

Professor Emeritus of African American Studies at the University of Wisconsin, Craig Werner, joins Jesse this week. They discuss Craig's favorite work by Baldwin, how he came to Baldwin in the first place as well as Baldwin's importance still resonating today. They also talk about the three impulses of Black music, the importance of the church to the history of Black music, and finally, the upcoming book about the 1960's that Craig is currently working on.

Songs of the Week: Kendrick Lamar - Alright. https://youtu.be/Z-48u_uWMHY

Curtis Mayfield and the Impressions - People Get Ready. https://youtu.be/l04yM7-BWbg

Craig Werner's Website: https://afroamericanstudies.wisc.edu/staff/craig-werner/

Other artists discussed this week include: Miles Davis, Booker T and the MGs, The Sharelles, Darlene Love, The Crystals, and Ruby and the Romantics

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