Ani for President!

I recently posted about Obama's national cause in support of the Arts. I am sure that many of you are aware that he also is an activist for women's rights.

In the Winter 2009 inaugural issue of Ms. Magazine, feminist folk musician, Ani DiFranco, speaks out to President Obama:

"I have received so many breathless letters myself and now it's role-reversal time. You have reawakened a disillusioned and passive electorate and begun healing racial wounds that have crippled us for centuries." (photo to left by Rhea Anna for Ms. Magazine)

Ani is an example of an artist who gives back to the people. On one hand her music is personal, which makes it accessible. On the other, it is popular because it is political.

Ani`s most recent song, November 4, 2008, is a direct reference to election day. In an interview by Italian blogger, Eleonora Bianchini, Ani declares that her politics are somewhat left of Obama`s, that she`s more radical than him. Nevertheless she rejoices about what she believes he will bring to America.


There has been some controversy within the Ani fan community because the lyrics to November 4 seem not as poetic as what the little folksinger is capable of. What is important, however, is that she has captured a moment with her music. Ani spent the week after election day writing this song. It`s not about how poetic it is, or how popular Obama is. Ani is human and like many, it is great to see that she is in tune with a vision for change. November 4, 2008 is another outlet for the expression of independence and opinion that has given Ani her name in the industry.

To watch additional solo and live versions of November 4th, 2008, step on over to Righteous Babe Records!