“Twang is the essence of that Blackness…” — Queen Esther
BGS stands in solidarity with Black, Indigenous, and Folks of Color. While we have always done our best to amplify a spectrum of artists — especially in an industry that has all too often co-opted, appropriated, ignored, and undervalued Black creators — we know we must do better. Now more than ever, we are committed to the work of being allies and advocates.
The simplest act of protest you can participate in is listening. We encourage you to start with this powerful 2018 TED Talk from musician and activist Queen Esther, where she addresses how American roots music — including country, bluegrass, and Americana — is all rooted in blues and African instrumentation and tradition.
There is much work to do and we are just getting started.
More resources for learning, giving, and support here.
Amy Reitnouer Jacobs is the co-founder and executive director of BGS.
