Samora Pinderhughes released Black Spring in April — one month before the killing of George Floyd and our country’s larger moment of reckoning. But his EP eerily serves as a musical reflection on our current wave of unrest.
On this episode of The Checkout, we’ll check-in with Pinderhughes, a singer-songwriter and pianist who usually serves as a musician first and an activist second. In these unprecedented times, the order of those descriptors should probably be reversed. Pinderhughes routinely uses his musical platform as an agent for change, and he says our battle for equality and racial justice has only just begun.
Besides sharing “Kill War,” one of his most devastating songs to date, he offers some practical guidance in the midst of the upheaval, and critical reading materials. His Resource Document for This Moment is an illuminating list of articles, videos, and books to read — and, perhaps more urgently, a list of organizations doing the demanding work on the ground in helping end systemic racism.
Pinderhughes also reveals the true story behind the man depicted in his music video for “Hold That Weight,” and considers the complicated role that musicians play in today’s revolution. His advice for anyone ready to jump headfirst into the cause: first listen, learn, and leave the egos at the door. Pay attention to the local organizations in your area and be ready for a long fight ahead.
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