On this edition of StudioTulsa, we speak with the remarkable singer-songwriter, actor, and activist Holly Near, who'll perform with the folk duo known as Emma's Revolution --- as well as pianist Jan Martinelli -- on Friday night (the 11th) at 7:30pm at the All Souls Unitarian Church in Tulsa, at 2952 South Peoria. Near is well-known for writing such classic modern-day folk anthems as "It Could Have Been Me" and "Singing For Our Lives" --- and for appearing in several notable films, plays, and TV programs over the years. (Very early in her career, she appeared in the original Broadway production of "Hair," for example.) A legendary, multi-faceted musician who's released more than 20 albums thus far in her career, Near speaks with us about how her method/approach/ambition as both a singer and songwriter has always drawn as much from jazz and cabaret as it does from folk music and progressive socio-political awareness. She also reflects on the life and legacy of her late friend and sometime on-stage collaborator, Pete Seeger. You can learn more about this funny, intelligent, and refreshingly sincere performer at her website --- and more about her upcoming gig in Tulsa at this link from the Emma's Revolution site.
A Chat with the Wonderful Singer-Songwriter, Actor, and Activist Holly Near
