LaVern Baker photo c1956 by Jimmy Baynes

Day 3: Cultural Appropriation & Reparations

YWCA Racial Justice Challenge

CULTURAL APPROPRIATION

Watch author Alice Randall give a summary of LaVern Baker's life and career that spotlights the cultural appropriation involved in cover songs and the systemic racism she encountered.

Author Alice Randall on LaVern Baker

LaVern Baker Dress, c. 1960. Gift of LaVern Baker. Baker petitioned Congress to pass laws to prevent the copying of song arrangements when pop artist Georgia Gibbs scored a hit covering “Tweedlee Dee,” but was unsuccessful.

Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone Vest, c. 1971. Collection of The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. After years of personal and professional struggles, Stone sued his former managers, testifying that they had not provided royalty payments for 20 years. He was awarded $5 million in damages, but that verdict was later overturned by an appellate court.

The Lasting Influence of "Big Mama" Thornton

Take a dive into the life and musical impact of Willie Mae, famously known as “Big Mama” Thornton and her tremendous impact on musicians from Elvis Presley to Janelle Monáe.

ADVISORY: These assets contain language and/or themes that may not be appropriate for all students. Please preview all materials in their entirety before using in a classroom setting.

Billie Holiday at the Tiffany Club. Los Angeles 1952 courtesy Tom and Ethel Bradley

More Resources

"It's Been Said All Along: Voices of Rage, Hope & Empowerment"

Explore more resources on the topic of racial and social justice in music inside our virtual exhibit, Rock Hall EDU collection, and Library & Archives.