The Revolution Will Not Be Televised cover

The Revolution Will Not Be Televised

Gil Scott-Heron · 1974

62 min · 17 tracks · jazz

A potent blend of spoken word, jazz, and soul that critiques social injustice with raw urgency.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its fearless exploration of race relations and activism during the civil rights era. The title track became an anthem for social justice movements, influencing countless artists across genres. It received critical acclaim for its innovative merging of poetry and music, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of hip-hop and socially conscious music.
Career context
Released in 1974, 'The Revolution Will Not Be Televised' was Gil Scott-Heron's follow-up to his debut album, 'Small Talk at 125th and Lenox'. At this point in his career, Scott-Heron was establishing himself as a key voice in the Black Arts Movement, blending music with poignant social commentary. This album solidified his reputation as a pioneering figure in the realm of spoken word and politically charged music.
Stylistic neighbors
Herbie Hancock· giorge mijael· Sun Ra

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Revolution Will Not Be Televised Standout 3:07
  • 2 Sex Education: Ghetto Style 0:52
  • 3 The Get Out of the Ghetto Blues 5:08
  • 4 No Knock 1:30
  • 5 Lady Day and John Coltrane 3:34
  • 6 Pieces of a Man 4:56
  • 7 Home Is Where the Hatred Is Standout 3:20
  • 8 Brother 1:45
  • 9 Save the Children 4:27
  • 10 Whitey on the Moon Standout 1:28
  • 11 Did You Hear What They Said? 3:28
  • 12 When You Are Who You Are 3:23
  • 13 I Think I’ll Call It Morning 3:32
  • 14 A Sign of the Ages 4:03
  • 15 Or Down You Fall 3:13
  • 16 The Needle’s Eye 4:51
  • 17 The Prisoner 9:25

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata