Aug
10

Conversations in Context: Music

Black and white photo of Lead Belly

Lead Belly. (Courtesy Smithsonian Channel)

“Conversations in Context” is a five-part interview series between Lonnie G. Bunch III, 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, and MTV News host Dometi Pongo.  Each 8-10 minute episode will focus on a theme set up to explore parallels between historical milestones and today’s events. From movements to marches, witness an intergenerational discussion that covers everything from Lead Belly to Lil’ Baby, and journey from the Selma to Montgomery March to the Brooklyn Liberation parade. Secretary Bunch will provide commentary on significant milestones to help us better understand how history can help move us forward.

Episode Three: Music

Inspired by the release of “Lead Belly” August 1, 1938, Dometi Pongo and Lonnie Bunch discuss music as a form of protest.

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Posted: 10 August 2020
About the Author:

Lonnie G. Bunch III is the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. He was the founding director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and is the first historian to be Secretary of the Institution.