Small Talk at 125th and Lenox
Gil Scott-Heron · 1970
44 min · 14 tracks · jazz
A potent blend of spoken word and jazz-infused rhythms that critiques societal norms and injustices.
Why this album works
This album is notable for its incisive critique of race relations in America, particularly through tracks like 'The Revolution Will Not Be Televised' and 'Whitey on the Moon.' It laid the groundwork for future generations of artists addressing social issues through their work, influencing hip-hop and spoken word poetry.
- Career context
- When 'Small Talk at 125th and Lenox' was released in 1970, Gil Scott-Heron was emerging as a critical voice in the Black Arts Movement. This album marked his debut, establishing him as a significant figure in the fusion of music and social commentary during a turbulent period in American history.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Herbie Hancock· giorge mijael· Sun Ra
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Introduction / The Revolution Will Not Be Televised 3:21
- 2 Omen 1:46
- 3 Brother 2:35
- 4 Comment #1 4:27
- 5 Small Talk at 125th & Lenox 1:21
- 6 The Subject Was Faggots 3:11
- 7 Evolution (And Flashback) 3:21
- 8 Plastic Pattern People 2:53
- 9 Whitey on the Moon Standout 1:59
- 10 The Vulture 4:32
- 11 Enough 4:16
- 12 Paint It Black 0:34
- 13 Who'll Pay Reparations on My Soul? Standout 5:15
- 14 Everyday 4:30
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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