Billie Holiday: Strange Fruit
In Billie Holiday: Strange Fruit, host Kathleen Turner recounts how Billie Holiday’s song “Strange Fruit” became an iconic protest anthem during the Civil Rights Movement. Despite struggles with addiction, police harassment, and being blacklisted, Holiday's bravery and artistry made a lasting impact. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century, a documentary series celebrating the achievements of the most influential figures of the era.
Advisory: Deals with prostitution and drug addiction. Lesson Express
Q: Why do you think Billie Holiday chose to perform "Strange Fruit" despite the risks?
A: Billie Holiday performed "Strange Fruit" to shed light on the horrors of racism and lynching, even though it put her career and personal safety at risk.
Q: How did “Strange Fruit” contribute to the Civil Rights Movement?
A: "Strange Fruit" became a powerful protest song, drawing attention to the violence and racism that Black Americans faced, inspiring others to join the fight for racial justice.
Q: What challenges did Billie Holiday face in her life and career, and how did she overcome them?
A: Billie Holiday faced addiction, racism, and societal pressures but continued to sing and use her voice for social change.
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In Billie Holiday: A Voice Against Injustice, host Kathleen Turner explores the early struggles of the legendary jazz singer, Billie Holiday. Rising from a tragic childhood, Holiday overcame unimaginable hardships to captivate the world with her unique voice, even as she faced overt racism. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century, a documentary series celebrating the achievements of the most influential figures of the era.
In Billie Holiday: A Voice Against Injustice, host Kathleen Turner explores the early struggles of the legendary jazz singer, Billie Holiday. Rising from a tragic childhood, Holiday overcame unimaginable hardships to captivate the world with her unique voice, even as she faced overt racism. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century, a documentary series celebrating the achievements of the most influential figures of the era.