It’s natural, as we watch entries to start to notice themes that tie them together. Last week, our colleague Ann Powers wrote that a resurgence of political music “has been building over the past decade, across genres from Latin and indigenous hip hop to ambient music addressing the climate crisis to historically aware jazz to renewed old-school folk.” So it’s no surprise that we noticed an uptick in entries that “speak directly to this political moment” as well. With the especially brutal and disheartening state of the world, many of you are channeling your sadness, frustration, rage and hope for change into your music. Here are some that struck a chord:
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Brian Keith Wallen talks about the importance of treating strangers with kindness and grace.
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Ashley Sankey honors perseverance.
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King Sol & The Vibes sing to Immigration and Customs Enforcement directly, urging them to leave communities alone.
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The Soapbox Salute gives us a song of hope assuring us that “better days are coming.”
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The Devil Said Jump offers a song of courage and steadfast strength in the face of anger.
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Stefano Jay urges his community to head to the streets in protest.
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Dragon of the West reflects on what it means coming from a family of immigrants and finding his voice.
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Sara Camille sings for those who are risking their lives protecting their neighbors.
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And we’ve received at least 30 entries dedicated to Renee Macklin Good, Alex Pretti and the people of Minneapolis, including Loose Rooster’s “Bash the Fash,” Paul Jannicola’s “Sorrow In My Soul” and Annie D’s “Blood in the Snow.”
We often call the thousands of you that submit each year the Contest community, and that is truly what you are — a community of artists here for one another. Which is why we encourage you to connect, gather, be here for one another and continue to make powerful music — especially now. |
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From the Desk,
NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest team |
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Stream your local NPR station. |
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| Visit NPR.org to find your local station stream. |
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