Monday, June 8, 2009

TRIUMPH FROM TRAGEDY: Commemorating The Great Depression and New Deal Era in North Louisiana


Volunteers and board members of Cultural Crossroads are currently working on a special event for a 21 parish commemoration of the Great Depression. Special events marking that time in our country’s history will be held during the months of October, November and December.

We’re looking for someone who would be willing to impersonate the famous folk singer Woody Guthrie. And we’re looking for someone who could impersonate the famous Hubbie “Lead Belly” Leadbetter. Both guys were friends during the Great Depression. A musical concert spotlighting the music of both of these men would make an awesome event. So, help us make this happen. If you know a musician or musicians that you think could help us pull this off, give us a call at 393 5991.

Woody Guthrie is best known as an American singer-songwriter and folk musician, whose musical legacy includes hundreds of political, traditional and children’s songs, ballads and improvised work. He frequently performed with the slogan “This Machine Kills Fascists” displayed on his guitar. His best known song is “This Land is Your Land,” which is regularly sung in American and Canadian schools.

Guthrie traveled with migrant workers from Oklahoma to California and learned traditional folk and blues songs. Many of his songs are about his experiences in the Dust Bowl era during the Great Depression, earning him the nickname the “Dust Bowl Troubadour.” Guthrie served as a figurehead in the folk movement, providing inspiration to a generation of new folk musicians, including Ramblin’ Jack Elliott and Bob Dylan.

Woody Guthrie was inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame in 1997.

Woodrow Wilson “Woody” Guthrie (July 14, 1912-October 3, 1967)

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