Ep 10. Pete Seeger: the Power of Song

In American Masters season 21 episode 10, viewers are treated to a look at the life and legacy of folk icon Pete Seeger. Through a combination of archival footage, interviews with Seeger himself, and new interviews with those who knew him best, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of Seeger's career, activism, and enduring influence.

Born into a musical family in 1919, Seeger began performing as a young child and quickly developed a love for folk music. He went on to study at Harvard, where he joined a radical student group and first became interested in social justice issues. After traveling the country working odd jobs, Seeger began performing with the likes of Woody Guthrie and The Almanac Singers, using music as a tool for activism.

However, Seeger's career was not without its controversies. During the height of the Cold War, he was blacklisted for his left-wing views and affiliations. The FBI tracked his movements and prevented him from appearing on television or radio. Undaunted, Seeger continued to perform at rallies and benefit concerts, becoming a symbol of resistance to the government's attempts to silence dissenting voices.

The episode also delves into Seeger's personal life, including his marriage to filmmaker Toshi Seeger and their efforts to build a home for their family in upstate New York. Through interviews with his children and grandchildren, viewers gain insight into Seeger's dedication to environmentalism and sustainability. His activism extended beyond music, as he worked to clean up the Hudson River and fought against the construction of a hydroelectric dam that would have flooded his beloved Catskills.

Seeger's music remains a beacon of hope and inspiration to this day. Through powerful performances of classics like "We Shall Overcome" and "If I Had a Hammer," the episode illustrates Seeger's ability to connect with audiences and inspire them to take action. Interviews with fellow musicians like Bruce Springsteen and Joan Baez demonstrate Seeger's lasting impact on the folk music community and beyond.

Overall, Pete Seeger: the Power of Song is a moving tribute to a true American original. Viewers will come away with a deeper appreciation for Seeger's artistry, activism, and unwavering commitment to social justice.