As we watched and listened on the first day of class this semester, entertainers (in that case the Dixie Chics) often shape the political landscape in their comments and musical lyrics. Bruce Springsteen has purposefully sought to contribute to the public dialogue, expressing his own political views and hoping to shape public opinion. Click on the links below to read an NPR story on his efforts and then to read the lyrics from one of his songs.
NPR Interview with Bruce Springsteen March 5, 2008
Springsteen lyrics to "Long Walk Home" from Magic (Oct. 2007)
Do you think entertainers should use their public power to shape public opinion in politics? Why or why not? Do you listen to someone whose music has a political message? If so, who is it and what was the message? Were they effective?
