People often overlook the political import of 80s music. I often answer the question, “What radicalized you?” with the answer, *Scarecrow* by John Mellencamp. Reagan had just cruised to a second term landslide victory my freshman year of college. Scarecrow was the first CD I bought after purchasing a player. Mellencamp awakened a critical consciousness in me. I’m looking forward to the rest of this series.
A very insightful essay on Mellencamp. Just learned that Stephen Wilson Jr is also from Seymour, Indiana. He could very well become the next generation representing the mid-west in a big way.
Bob Seger was also a voice that represented the mid-west (Michigan in particular) during that era.
Perhaps, not as overtly political as Mellencamp but Seger still has a very strong appeal to many Americans who were in HS between the mid 70's and early 80's (I'm one of those - a big fan of Springsteen, Mellencamp, Seger & Petty).
I am a new subscriber. I look forward to reading your upcoming essays on Mellencamp and others.
People often overlook the political import of 80s music. I often answer the question, “What radicalized you?” with the answer, *Scarecrow* by John Mellencamp. Reagan had just cruised to a second term landslide victory my freshman year of college. Scarecrow was the first CD I bought after purchasing a player. Mellencamp awakened a critical consciousness in me. I’m looking forward to the rest of this series.
Thanks, Rick!
Thanks Rick!
A very insightful essay on Mellencamp. Just learned that Stephen Wilson Jr is also from Seymour, Indiana. He could very well become the next generation representing the mid-west in a big way.
Bob Seger was also a voice that represented the mid-west (Michigan in particular) during that era.
Perhaps, not as overtly political as Mellencamp but Seger still has a very strong appeal to many Americans who were in HS between the mid 70's and early 80's (I'm one of those - a big fan of Springsteen, Mellencamp, Seger & Petty).
I am a new subscriber. I look forward to reading your upcoming essays on Mellencamp and others.
I agree about Seger. Thanks for reading!