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Ep 8, Rock & Roll and the Civil Rights Movement
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“Rock & roll wasn’t just about rebellion—it was about revolution. It was young, it was Black, and it was bold enough to break down barriers.” – Dr. Reiland Rabaka
In this episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores how rock & roll helped shape the Civil Rights Movement and American democracy itself. From its deep roots in gospel and rhythm & blues to its explosive rise in the 1950s and ’60s, rock & roll became more than music—it was a cultural force for integration, resistance, and youth rebellion.
Dr. Rabaka highlights the often-overlooked Black artists who laid the foundation for the genre, including Chuck Berry, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Little Richard, and Fats Domino. These trailblazers challenged segregation not only with their sound, but with their presence—defying racial barriers and inspiring both Black and white audiences in a deeply divided America.
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