Saturday, May 28, 2011

Great Scott (Heron)

Gil Scott-Heron passed yesterday. He's known for his influence on political rap, which in itself has been in retreat for some years now. But he was more than that. There was always texture and true soul to his songs, a sense of there being a man behind the message. He came back with a new album in 2010, I'm New Here, and while it may take some warming to, just the fact that he was back in front of a band in his last months is a cause for celebration.

2 comments:

susan said...

I memorized the words to 'The Revolution Will Not Be Televised' so long ago it came as no surprise when the networks stopped showing any protests whatsoever. I'm very sorry to know he's passed away and hope there truly is a better place waiting to welcome him.

Ben said...

Ah the networks. There could be a sequel song called "The Tea Party Revolution Will Be Televised, Even if It Doesn't Happen." But yeah, I hope he's happy and at peace.