A self-described anarchist who slept on the Caffe floor while recording an album, and a songwriter whose stories have been used for protest, weddings and funerals.
This is episode 29 of the Caffe Lena: 60 years of Song podcast. Thank you to Sarah at the Caffe for the list of songs and artists for the feature.
Music has always played a role in providing social commentary. Utah Phillips, a self-described anarchist, was once homeless, riding the rails as a tramp out west. He wrote songs about his travels before dedicating his talents toward starting a mission house, advocating for the homeless, and running for public office.
Sam Steffen is a prolific storyteller and songwriter, pairing stories both personal and political with skilled fingerpicking. His songs have been used everywhere from academic lectures and political protests, weddings and funerals.
Caffe Lena: 60 Years of Song, a production of WEXT Radio.