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Adapting Classic Protest Songs For a Modern World

Chion Wolf
/
WNPR
Bishop John Selders appeared on WNPR's The Colin McEnore Show.
"These songs have the adaptability to be shifted and changed."
Bishop John Selders

Earlier this month, a group musicians and activists from Connecticut joined artists from around the country, who traveled to Missouri to participate in events marking the one-year anniversary of Michael Brown's death.

The "All Roads Lead to Ferguson: Black Lives Matter Tour," included musicians like The Peace Poets and Peter Yarrow of the folk group Peter, Paul and Mary.

Bishop John Selders of Connecticut was among the group. He spoke recently on WNPR's The Colin McEnroe Show about using older songs in a modern context.

"These songs have the adaptability to be shifted and changed," said Selders. He has a version of "Which Side Are You On," a union themed song made famous by Pete Seeger. "I'm on the freedom side," said Selders.

Listen to Pete Seeger's version here:

Tour stops included New York City, Baltimore, Cleveland and St. Louis.

Tucker Ives is WNPR's morning news producer.

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