Who / What
"The Revolution Will Not Be Televised" is a 1970 poem and song, famously performed by American spoken word pioneer and musician Gil Scott-Heron. It expresses radical political views about revolution as an alternative to mindless consumerism and media manipulation.
Background & History
The piece was recorded on April 23rd, 1970, for the album "Small Talk at 125th and Lenox," initially released in that year's format of spoken word poetry. A version with a three-piece band was later issued as the B-side to Scott-Heron's single, "Home Is Where The Hatred Is," taken from his critically acclaimed album "Pieces Of A Man" (1971). It originated within the vibrant spoken word scene in New York City during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Why Notable
It quickly became an anthem for various revolutionary movements, particularly resonating with anti-establishment sentiment and critiques of consumer culture. Scott-Heron's unique delivery combined poetry with soul music backing, creating a powerful piece that critiqued the manipulation inherent in media while being authentic to African American cultural expression during turbulent times. Its enduring legacy lies in its stark simplicity and provocative message.
In the News
The song gained renewed attention following George Floyd's murder and the widespread Black Lives Matter protests of 2020, often referenced by activists. It continues to be sampled and used by contemporary musicians like Kendrick Lamar, keeping it relevant as a symbol against blind acceptance of mainstream media narratives and apathy.
Key Facts
* Type: Song/Spoken Word Piece
* Also known as: None widely recognized other than its full title.
* Born / Founded: Not applicable (as the entity is a song). Gil Scott-Heron was born in 1949.
* Key dates:
* First recording session: April 23, 1970
* Initial release: 1970 (on album Small Talk at 125th and Lenox)
* Re-recorded version released as B-side: 1971 (on album Pieces of a Man)
* Geography:
* Place: New York City, USA
* Context: African American community during the Civil Rights era.
* Affiliation:
* Field: Music (Jazz/Blues/Soul/Radio), Spoken Word Poetry, Social Commentary. Representative of Black Liberation ideology.
Links
* [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Revolution_Will_Not_Be_Televised)
