Pete Seeger

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Pete Seeger and Folk Music Pete Seeger is so compelling because of his unwavering conviction for doing the right thing and protecting human rights. Even under the watchful eye of his enemies within the government and big wig monopoly power players he persevered. His songs have been a key element in many of the major political issues for the last forty years. Even being blacklisted for seventeen years from television and radio, he found a way to get his message of peace and equality across. Before folk music icon Pete Seeger had the Sloop Clearwater built to call attention to the need to clean up the Hudson River, he had had little experience on the water. A friend took him out at midnight sailing in a Beetle Cat – an eleven feet long, one…show more content…
One big reason is because even today Seeger is regarded as a 20th century iconic figure, as a pivotal part of the 1960s American folk music revival. According to the Encyclopedia of Folk, Country, and Western Music, Seeger was a "father figure whose contributions as an artist and writer were highly valued by people of all ages in and out of the music field." His use of repetition and borrowing songs that everyone already knew from their childhood were also a primary reason for his success as a folk artist and found of the movements that were spawned by him. His use of the banjo and guitar were also a big help in getting him the attention he needed to get his views and point across to the people. Even when black listed and not allowed on TV and radio he still was able to become a major influence on people as driving force for social change. Seeger became the recipient of several high honors in the 1990s. In 1993, he received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. A year later, he was awarded a National Medal of Arts, and in 1996, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Following the release of his album, Pete (1996), he won a Grammy Award (for best traditional folk album). That same year, Seeger published his autobiography, Where Have All the Flowers…show more content…
That same year, he performed at President Barack Obama's inaugural celebration. At the age of 91, Seeger released the album Tomorrow's Children (2010), which he recorded with a group of students and dedicated to environmental awareness. For the album, Seeger won his third Grammy Award (for best musical album for children). In May 2012, Seeger celebrated his 93rd birthday. He continues to work as an activist, supporting such causes as international disarmament, civil rights and environmental awareness. * The concept of “patriotism” The concept of patriotism in my mind is staying true to yourself, your family, your community and your country. It is our right to be able to voice our opinions when we feel any of those who are being abused or taken advantage of by enemies both foreign and domestic. I believe that Pete Seeger is the clear embodiment of what a living patriot truly is in modern times. He is patriotic to his family, friends, and most importantly his ideals of caring for one another and doing what’s right not what fills your bank full of money. * Politics and

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