Christine Lavin once said, "I think she’s influenced a lot of people who don’t even know her name."
This is episode 13 of Caffe Lena: 60 Years of Song. Thank you to Sarah at the Caffe for compiling the list of artists and songs.
Folk singer, Rosalie Sorrels first came to widespread attention at the 1966 Newport Folk Festival, where she performed traditional songs from her native state of Idaho, and Utah, where she lived with her family. She soon began writing her own material, about life on the road, her marital difficulties and the challenges of raising children. She then broadened her scope to include social issues like prison reform, suicide prevention and women’s rights.
Rosalie Sorrels was first brought to Caffè Lena by the great Hedy West. Rosalie and Lena would become closest friends over many years. She and her five children stayed with Lena often for months on end and establishing a "second home" in Saratoga Springs.
Nellie McKay is one of those renaissance artists who can do anything. She’s been on broadway, produced her own records, and everything in between. Her position as an animal rights activist has won her recognition. Nellie is an annoyingly vocal advocate for feminism, civil rights and other deeply felt progressive ideals. She belongs in the Caffe Lena world.
Caffe Lena: 60 Years of Song, a production of WEXT Radio.