Punk Rock Balladeer Billy Bragg On His Career, Free Speech, The Power Of Music
Billy Bragg is also an avid writer, in addition to his accomplished and influential music career.
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Seminal punk rock balladeer Billy Bragg has made a career out of always being honest and passionate with his songwriting. Citing influences from Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie to punk bands like The Clash, Bragg’s music is the perfect fusion of folk and punk.
His songs span a wide array of different subjects. But a theme that tends to link them is that of unity — and acceptance.
Above all, Bragg expresses the need for accountability to be had when it comes to writing music. Music, to him, helps us bridge social gaps and view life through the lens of others who may be different than ourselves.
“The currency of music is empathy. We’re very fortunate if we’re moved by music because we’re able to experience emotions that we’ve never experienced ourselves, for individuals we’ve never met. That’s the power that music has.”
Bragg is also an avid writer, in addition to his accomplished and influential music career. His latest book, “The Three Dimensions of Freedom,” explores the qualities of liberty and free speech.
Bragg joined “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes ahead of his virtual author event at Atlanta’s A Cappella Books on May 6.
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