Every once in awhile, in the midst of our faxing and calling and writing and picketing and working for change, we need an uplifting break, and I find that there are a lot of music videos out there of progressive songs that fit the bill.
I guess it's because my grandad was a union man, but I've always liked songs about and for working people. Previously, I've offered up several versions of "Which Side Are You On?", a traditional union song from the 30s.
Today, in the interest of promoting our struggle, in honor of all the ordinary working people (who, unlike the Wall Street crowd and corporate CEOs, have to work every day to eke out a bare living), and in honor of the real Norma Rae who died just last week, I'd like to give you "Millworker," a song written by my own era's master songwriter James Taylor.
Follow below the fold for links to some of the many versions of this song I like best.
First, to start us off, how about a lyrical one from songbird Emmy Lou Harris:
Emmy Lou's version of "Millworker"
Then of course there is the version by the very songwriter himself:
James Taylor's version
One for the more alt style folks from Nicola NYC:
Nicola
Who could pass up one from The Boss:
Bruce Springsteen version
Here's a video version from the short-run show the song was written for, "Working," based on the great book by Studs Terkel. The actress is Eileen Brenann, the singer is Jennifer Warnes:
Jennifer Warnes/Eileen Brennan
A version from West Virginia's favorite daughter Kathy Mattea and Milladoiro:
Kathy Mattea
Here's a wonderful British songstress named Barbara Dickson, which I think is my most favorite:
Barbara Dickson version
Finally, do you like Eddie Vedder?
Eddie Vedder
Hope you've found at least one version to enjoy. Several other songs from "Working" are on YouTube, so seek them out.