Politically 1961 was an interesting year. Kennedy is sworn in as president and the Cold War ramps up. In August the construction of the Berlin Wall would begin. Bay of Pigs leads to greater tension in Cuba and Castro aligns himself with the Soviet Union - more of that next year. More African nations move towards independence. South Africa withdraws from the Commonwealth and moves towards isolation. And Tony Benn was disqualified from holding his Bristol constituency because he was a Lord!
So far our playlist ignores all that - so looking for some politics we turn to Folk Music and Pete Seeger. He had been struggling to make a living since refusing to answer a subpoena to be questioned by the House UnAmerican Activities Committee. "I am not going to answer any questions as to my association, my philosophical or religious beliefs or my political beliefs, or how I voted in any election, or any of these private affairs. I think these are very improper questions for any American to be asked, especially under such compulsion as this." In May 1961 he was convicted of contempt of Congress and sentenced to 10 1 year terms in prison.
However, he kept producing records - often going back into history to make modern points about justice and liberty. He produced 5 albums in 1961 amongst which was Gazette Vol2 "A Collection of Topical songs, old and new without direction as to content or pressure" On that album was a song that spoke to the fears of the Cold War - written by British peace activist Sydney Carter - perhaps best known for the hymns Lord of the Dance and Once More Step Along the Way.
Here is Pete Seegers' chilling version of
Crow on the Cradle
