‘For Pete’s Sake, Sing!’ as Seeger Turns 90
Pete Seeger, the inspirational American folk music icon, political activist and humanitarian, whose songs have helped to provide a musical backdrop for many of the historical movements of the past 50-plus years, marks a historic milestone himself on Sunday, May 3. Throughout the country and the world over, many special events are planned in celebration of Pete’s 90th birthday. In addition, a five-CD box set of Seeger songs has just been released, and a number of folk radio programs airing over the weekend are likely to focus on his life and legacy.
[To read the entire article, including listings of more than a dozen "For Pete's Sake, Sing" events across the U.S., click on the headline.]
George Wein Secures Permit for Folk Festival 50 in Newport
Fifty years after launching the first Newport Folk Festival, George Wein, 83, a pioneer among producers of outdoor music festivals, will return to steer another one this summer at Fort Adams State Park in Newport, Rhode Island. Following months of negotiations, the Newport City Council last night approved a permit for what will be called George Wein’s Folk Festival 50. Slated for July 31-August 2, the event will feature several notable established folk artists who performed during the festival’s early years, as well as some more contemporary singer-songwriters and musicians. Tickets go on sale May 6 at www.folkfestival50.com.
[To read the article in its entirety, click on the headline.]
Plant and Krauss Dominate 51st Annual Grammy Awards
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss were the top winners in the 51st Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 8. The duo’s Rounder release, Raising Sand, produced by T Bone Burnett, was named Album of the Year and Best Contemporary Folk/Americana album. Plant and Krauss also captured awards for Record of the Year (“Please Read the Letter”), Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals (“Rich Woman”) and Best Country Collaboration with Vocals (“Killing The Blues”).
[To read the entire article, which includes a list of other notable winners, click on the headline.]
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