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Look, I hate when people use "political correctness" is a derogatory way. In general, this seems to be done when someone is called out for being a bigot of some kind.
But, there are some things which are bothering me... I hesitate to write this, but I feel like I have something to say, and I hope my words are taken in the spirit in which they are offered. So called Cancel Culture is getting a lot of attention these days. This is taking place a variety of levels for a variety of reasons. Now, my concerns are in the area of growth, change, and progress.
I consider myself a progressive. I believe we are moving toward a better, more enlightened future. Sometimes the progress is revolutionary and fast and sometimes it is painfully slow. And, in my view, on principal, there are people who oppose this progress. My job, as I see it, is to be a force for that change and that includes growing and changing myself.
So, what I have observed of late, is actions and works that happened in a past time being judged by today's standards. Now, I do believe right and wrong are fixed, but our cultures understanding of those fixed points is evolving. For example, the television show Soap, in the late 1970s was considered progressive in the ideas it discussed - albeit in a farcical manner. But, let's take Billy Crystal's character Jodie. One of the earliest depictions of an openly gay man on television. But, Jodie was played by a straight man and he - as I recall - displayed many stereotypical characteristics. These issues would be problematic if presented today. But, in context, they were part of the cultural shift that has led to the extent that LBGT+ individuals are represented in the media and in our culture. Under Cancel Culture, as I have seen it used, would Soap be "cancelled"? I wonder.
Another issue, individuals are being cancelled for actions they took in the past - an insensitive or offensive tweet or picture. While, I think it is appropriate to call such actions out - but I wonder - where in this process there is room for people to change and grow and repent (used here in a general or secular sense). Sometimes, it seems like - "nope sorry, you did something stupid or offensive in your teens or early twenties - game over".
None of that, in my view, is how progress works and this trend is - I fear dangerous to the progressive movement.
Just some thoughts... I have more, but I am out of time...
Today, we recap the next four songs in our Featured Friday Playlist (songs 9-12)
9. "Holy Hangover" by Ghost Town Remedy
Our prolific friends, Ghost Town Remedy are back with a rocking and catchy track - their latest single. Digging the direction(s) this band is going.
10. "Bop, Hop & Roll" by The Vignatis
Next up, we have a track from Red White & Blue: Gyspybilly, Vol. 4 - the new album from L.A. based duo The Vignatis. Playing a delightful potpurri of unique musical styles. The band manages to create something new out of fragments of other things. Which I think is the definition of rock and roll (and for that matter American music in general) or at least it should be. Groovy stuff!
11. "Keep Moving Along" by Jon Worthy (feat. Cody Fedeler)
Next up, we have a new single from E2TG favorite Jon Worthy - here teamed with Cody Fedeler. A wonderful song.
12. "Oh, Sedona - Take 4, Acoustic" by Michael McArthur
We featured Michael McArthur's cover of "Purple Rain" last week - I think. With the release of his new EP (the first of two in the coming months) - I thought we would feature one of his own compositions. This is the title track from the EP, and I am wondering why I am just now discovering his music.
Tomorrow - four more songs...
Featured Friday Playlist
