Musical Mischief/ November 2024

What I listened to this month

A month that is supposed to be reserved for gratitude can be challenging when we reflect on our recent election. Granted, I have much to give thanks for: I have a wonderful partner and family, I have a cozy home, I have my health, and there is no shortage of music and delicious food in my life. That being said, it’s also ok to kvetch a bit, because, what the fuck, America?!?! Anyway, here is my playlist of gratitude and incredulous disbelief representing the complicated history and state of the U.S.

The Temptations - Ball of Confusion

If you aren’t familiar with this song, turn on closed captions because every word in this song deserves to be heard. Ball of Confusion was released in 1970 when America was suffering from political and social conflict in ways that are eerily parallel to today. The Temptations, previously known for their ballads, came out with this song filled with righteous anger and cynicism. I recommend pairing this song with a strong cup of coffee while tuning out your MAGA uncle.

Appalachian Spring by Aaron Copland

Speaking of giving thanks, this is perhaps one of my favorite orchestral pieces. Choreographer Martha Graham commissioned it as a ballet. This is a recording of the television broadcast of the piece in 1958. It is peak Americana, filled with old folk melodies, including the famous Shaker song, Simple Gifts. I had the privilege to see the ballet live during my freshman year of college; it was a life-changing experience and moved me to chills. I recommend watching this with family over a hot cup of apple cider when you get tired of Charlie Brown and the Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Redbone

Of all indigenous musical groups, Redbone is among the bands that have received the most commercial success. You’ll likely recognize the first song I shared, which is their greatest hit. The second song was banned from many radio stations in the 1970s as it addressed the 1890 massacre by the U.S. Army. America is a complicated nation, and this Thanksgiving, we can be grateful for the freedoms that we do have while also criticizing some of our country’s actions. If anything, true patriotism is about dreaming and pushing for a better future, an action in which we all have a role.