POV Season 19 Episode 7 Lomax the Songhunter

In season 19, episode 7 of POV, viewers are treated to an insightful and fascinating look at the life and work of Alan Lomax, a renowned folklorist, ethnomusicologist, and song collector. The episode, titled "Lomax the Songhunter," explores Lomax's lifelong quest to document and preserve traditional music from all over the world, from the deep south of the United States to the mountains of Scotland.

The episode begins with a brief introduction to Lomax and his background, highlighting his early years collecting songs with his father, John Lomax, and his groundbreaking work with the Library of Congress in the 1930s and 40s. From there, the focus shifts to Lomax's later years, when he traveled the world in search of new and unique musical traditions to document.

Through a series of interviews with Lomax's collaborators, friends, and family members, viewers are offered an intimate glimpse into the man behind the music. Many of those interviewed speak to Lomax's passion for his work, his tireless dedication to documenting as many songs and musical styles as possible, and his uncanny ability to connect with musicians from different cultures and backgrounds.

Interspersed throughout the episode are a number of musical performances, both from Lomax's personal archive and filmed specifically for the show. These performances showcase the incredible variety and richness of the music that Lomax helped to capture and preserve, from haunting ballads to lively dance tunes.

One of the most interesting aspects of the episode is its exploration of Lomax's methods and approach to collecting music. Viewers learn about the challenges he faced in convincing musicians to share their songs, as well as the innovative techniques he developed to capture the sound and feel of traditional music in its natural environment.

Perhaps most movingly, the episode also delves into Lomax's personal motivations for his work. Viewers learn about the impact of growing up in a family with a strong love and appreciation for music, as well as the profound effect that witnessing the poverty and inequality of the Great Depression had on Lomax's worldview. Through his work collecting and sharing the music of marginalized and underrepresented communities, Lomax sought to shine a light on the beauty and value of cultures that were often dismissed or denigrated by mainstream society.

Overall, "Lomax the Songhunter" is a must-watch for anyone interested in the power of music to bring people together, to connect us to our past and our heritage, and to uplift and inspire us in even the darkest of times. Through its engaging interviews, stunning musical performances, and fascinating insights into the life and work of Alan Lomax, the episode offers a nuanced and complex portrait of one of the most important figures in the history of folk and traditional music.