Paul Robeson, the legendary actor, singer, and activist, presents a powerful and timeless collection of songs in "Songs of Struggle and Love." Released on January 8, 2021, by Musical Concepts, this album is a testament to Robeson's extraordinary vocal prowess and his commitment to social justice. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, the album features 29 tracks that blend classical, folk, and protest music, showcasing Robeson's versatility and depth as an artist.
The album opens with the iconic "Summertime" from "Porgy and Bess," followed by a mix of spirituals, folk songs, and political anthems that reflect Robeson's lifelong dedication to the struggles of the oppressed. Tracks like "Joe Hill," "The Peat-Bog Soldiers," and "Native Land" highlight his activism, while "Saint Louis Blues" and "Mah Lindy Lou" showcase his ability to convey deep emotion and warmth. The inclusion of "Jerusalem" and the "Soviet National Anthem" underscores his internationalist perspective and solidarity with global movements for justice.
"Songs of Struggle and Love" is not just a compilation of songs but a historical document that captures the essence of Paul Robeson's artistry and his unwavering commitment to justice. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his work, this album offers a profound and moving experience, showcasing the enduring relevance of Robeson's voice and message.
2020 Musical Concepts2020 Musical Concepts
Tracks
Summertime (from "Porgy and Bess")George Gershwin, Paul Robeson, Clifford Greenwood
Carry Me Back to Green PasturesHarry S. Pepper, Paul Robeson
Were You ThereTraditional spiritual, Paul Robeson
By and ByTraditional spiritual, Paul Robeson
John HenryTraditional spiritual, Paul Robeson
Joe HillAlfred Hayes, Paul Robeson
The Peat-Bog SoldiersTraditional, Paul Robeson
Kevin Barryanonymous Irish, Paul Robeson
Native LandIsaac Donayevsky, Paul Robeson
The Four Insurgent GeneralsAnonymous, Paul Robeson
Oh How Proud Our Quiet DonIvan Dzerzhinsky, Paul Robeson
Sanders of the River - Killing SongMischa Spoliansky, Paul Robeson, Muir Mathieson
Sanders of the River - Congo LullabyMischa Spoliansky, Paul Robeson, Muir Mathieson
At DawningCharles Wakefield Cadman, Paul Robeson
Didn't My Lord Deliver DanielTraditional spiritual, Paul Robeson
Steal Away to JesusTraditional spiritual, Paul Robeson
Saint Louis BluesW.C. Handy, Paul Robeson
Mah Lindy LouLily Strickland, Paul Robeson
Cradle SongAlexander Gretcheninov, Paul Robeson
Passing ByEdward Purcell, Robert Herrick, Paul Robeson
Big Fella - Lazin'Eric Ansell, Paul Robeson, Eric Ancell
ThoraStephen Adams, Paul Robeson, Walter Goehr
Love At My HeartAlfred Perceval Graves, Paul Robeson, Walter Goehr
Encantadora MariaTraditional Folk Song, Paul Robeson, Ronnie Munro
The Proud Valley - EbenezerThomas John Williams, Paul Robeson
All Men Are BrothersLudwig van Beethoven, Paul Robeson
Song of the Plains "Polyushka Polye"Traditional Russian, Paul Robeson
Soviet National AnthemAlexander Alexandrov, Paul Robeson