Free Republic

Protest music has always been a source of contention for every big name in Washington. Even though it may just be a chance for someone to exercise free speech, there’s no telling whether they will be able to sway any public opinion by the time they hit the big time. Most artists have much more power than they think, and Phil Ochs knew that it was dangerous for him to be saying what he was saying when the FBI became involved. Throughout his time in the spotlight, Ochs was practically on the same level as Bob Dylan in terms of...

Earle lends passion to Iraq war protest near Bush's ranch - Steve Earle sings for peace advocates and soldiers' relatives near Crawford COUNTRY MUSIC CRAWFORD, Texas – When Steve Earle got his invitation to perform at the Camp Casey protest outside President Bush's Crawford residence the singer-songwriter asked organizers to think twice about their choice. "I think this is the beginning of a mainstream movement against the war in Iraq, so I wanted them to consider who I am and the kind of lightning rod I can be," said Mr. Earle, who has a history of activism against the death...