Billie Holiday - "Strange Fruit" - Commodore Records (1939) - 526 A

Billie Holiday - "Strange Fruit" - Commodore Records (1939) - 526 A

Record Information:
- Title: Strange Fruit
- Artist: Billie Holiday
- Label: Commodore Records
- Catalog Number: 526 A
- Year of Release: 1939
- Format: Shellac 78 RPM

Description:
In this video, you'll experience Billie Holiday's poignant and powerful recording of "Strange Fruit," played on a classic gramophone. Released in 1939 by Commodore Records, this track captures Holiday's haunting vocal performance that brought attention to the horrific practice of lynching in America. The song, written by teacher and songwriter Abel Meeropol under the pseudonym Lewis Allan, was first performed by Holiday at Café Society in New York City. "Strange Fruit" became a protest anthem and a defining moment in Holiday's career.

Historical Context and Impact
"Strange Fruit" is a harrowing depiction of the lynching of African Americans in the South, described through stark and vivid imagery. The song is widely regarded as one of the earliest and most influential protest songs in American history. Holiday's performances of the song were deeply emotional and often left audiences in stunned silence.

Holiday's decision to perform and record "Strange Fruit" was courageous and controversial, attracting the ire of authorities, particularly Harry Anslinger, the head of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, who targeted Holiday due to his racist views. This song is central to the narrative of "The United States vs. Billie Holiday," a film that explores her struggles and confrontations with the authorities over her civil rights activism and personal battles.

Note: This track is an essential part of Billie Holiday's legacy and a significant piece of American music history, reminding us of the power of music to challenge and inspire.