Ep 4. you can say that again, billie

Poetry in America season 3 episode 4, titled "You Can Say That Again, Billie," is a deep dive into the life and work of the legendary Billie Holiday. Often referred to as one of the greatest jazz singers of all time, Holiday was a complex and multifaceted artist whose music spoke to the struggles of African Americans in the early 20th century.

In this episode, host Elisa New is joined by a panel of experts to explore two of Holiday's most famous songs: "God Bless the Child" and "Strange Fruit." The group includes trumpeter and composer Wynton Marsalis, music journalist Farah Jasmine Griffin, and historian John Sayles, among others.

Together, they examine the lyrics of these songs and the cultural context in which they were written. "God Bless the Child," for example, is a powerful anthem about the struggle for financial independence and the value of self-reliance. The panelists discuss how this message resonated with African Americans at the time, as they faced discrimination and limited opportunities in the workforce.

Similarly, "Strange Fruit" is a haunting and deeply emotional song that tackles the issue of lynching in the South. Holiday's chilling rendition of the song, which describes the bodies of black men hanging from trees, has been called one of the most important cultural artifacts of the civil rights movement.

Throughout the episode, the panelists reflect on the impact of Holiday's music and the ways in which she used her art to speak truth to power. They also examine the technical aspects of her singing style, which was at times raw and unpolished, yet always deeply authentic.

In addition to these discussions, the episode features powerful performances of both "God Bless the Child" and "Strange Fruit." Jazz vocalist Lizz Wright delivers a stunning rendition of the former, while opera singer Lawrence Brownlee brings a haunting beauty to the latter.

Overall, "You Can Say That Again, Billie" is a moving tribute to one of the most important artists of the 20th century. Through thoughtful analysis and beautiful performances, the episode offers a window into the mind of Billie Holiday and the power of her music.