“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Strange Fruit” Live 1959 is a haunting and powerful performance by the legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday. Captured during a live recording in 1959, this rendition of “Strange Fruit” remains one of the most iconic and moving interpretations of the song. Billie Holiday’s deep, emotive voice, coupled with the poignant subject matter, creates a chilling experience that has left a lasting impact on audiences and continues to resonate with listeners today.
Originally written as a protest against the racial violence faced by African Americans, “Strange Fruit” became an integral part of Holiday’s repertoire. This live performance showcases not only her vocal prowess but also her ability to convey profound emotion and social commentary through music.
About The Composition
- Title: “Strange Fruit” Live 1959
- Composer: Abel Meeropol
- Premiere Date: 1939
- Album/Opus/Collection: “Billie Holiday at Carnegie Hall” (live performance)
- Genre: Jazz/Blues
Background
“Strange Fruit” was first written as a poem by Abel Meeropol, a Jewish schoolteacher from the Bronx, in the late 1930s. Meeropol, who was deeply disturbed by the lynching of African Americans in the South, composed the poem “Bitter Fruit” as a stark protest against racism. The poem was later set to music and performed by Billie Holiday, who was introduced to the song by Barney Josephson, the owner of Café Society in New York City. Holiday’s performance of “Strange Fruit” was initially met with controversy due to its bold subject matter, but it quickly gained recognition as a powerful statement against racial injustice.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Strange Fruit” is characterized by its somber and haunting melody that underscores the gravity of its lyrics. The arrangement typically features a slow, deliberate tempo with sparse instrumentation, allowing Holiday’s emotive voice to take center stage. The song’s melancholic minor key and dramatic pauses enhance its emotional impact, making it a poignant listening experience.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Strange Fruit” vividly describe the horror of lynching in the American South, using stark imagery to convey the brutality of racial violence. Lines such as “Black bodies swinging in the southern breeze” serve as a chilling reminder of the atrocities faced by African Americans. The song’s lyrical themes of injustice and human suffering have made it a powerful protest anthem and a significant work of art in the fight for civil rights.
Performance History
Billie Holiday first performed “Strange Fruit” at Café Society in 1939, marking the beginning of its association with her career. Over the years, she delivered countless renditions of the song, each imbued with deep emotion and conviction. The 1959 live performance is particularly notable as it captures Holiday’s mature interpretation, showcasing her ability to convey the profound message of the song with unparalleled depth and intensity.
Cultural Impact
“Strange Fruit” has had a lasting impact on both music and society. It is widely regarded as one of the first protest songs of the civil rights movement, inspiring countless artists and activists. The song has been covered by numerous musicians across different genres, further cementing its place in cultural history. Its influence extends beyond music, appearing in various films, documentaries, and educational discussions about race relations in America.
Legacy
The legacy of “Strange Fruit” endures as a testament to the power of music as a tool for social change. Billie Holiday’s rendition remains a poignant reminder of the struggle for equality and justice. The song continues to be relevant today, serving as a reminder of the ongoing fight against racial discrimination and the importance of using art to address societal issues.
Conclusion
“Strange Fruit” Live 1959 by Billie Holiday is more than just a musical performance; it is a profound statement on human rights and the power of music to inspire change. I encourage listeners to explore this powerful rendition and reflect on its themes, as it remains an essential piece of cultural history with enduring significance.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
Southern trees bear a strange fruit
Blood on the leaves and blood at the root
Black bodies swinging in the Southern breeze
Strange fruit hanging from the poplar trees
[Verse 2]
Pastoral scene of the gallant south
The bulging eyes and the twisted mouth
Scent of magnolias, sweet and fresh
Then the sudden smell of burning flesh
[Verse 3]
Here is a fruit for the crows to pluck
For the rain to gather, for the wind to suck
For the sun to rot, for the tree to drop
Here is a strange and bitter crop