Earl Robinson
Joe Hill
Works Info
Composer:Earl RobinsonGenre:MiscellaneousStyle:MiscellaneousAverage_duration:3:55"Joe Hill" is a song composed by Earl Robinson in 1936. It was written as a tribute to Joe Hill, a labor activist and songwriter who was executed in 1915. The song became a popular anthem for the labor movement and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The song premiered in 1936 at a rally in New York City organized by the International Workers Order. It quickly became a favorite of labor unions and was often sung at rallies and protests. The song's popularity grew during the 1940s and 1950s, as the labor movement gained strength in the United States. "Joe Hill" is a simple, yet powerful song that consists of three verses and a chorus. The verses tell the story of Joe Hill's life and his commitment to the labor movement. The chorus is a call to action, urging listeners to continue the fight for workers' rights. The first verse of the song describes Joe Hill's arrival in the United States as an immigrant from Sweden. It also mentions his involvement in the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), a radical labor union that advocated for the overthrow of capitalism. The second verse tells the story of Hill's arrest and trial for murder. Hill was accused of killing a Salt Lake City grocer, but many believed that he was framed because of his union activities. Hill was ultimately convicted and executed by firing squad. The third verse of the song is a call to action, urging listeners to continue the fight for workers' rights. It encourages workers to organize and stand up against the wealthy elite who control the economy. "Joe Hill" is a simple song musically, with a melody that is easy to sing and remember. The song is typically performed with guitar accompaniment and has a folk music feel. The song's simplicity and accessibility have contributed to its enduring popularity. In conclusion, "Joe Hill" is a powerful tribute to a labor activist and songwriter who gave his life for the cause of workers' rights. The song's simple melody and powerful lyrics have made it a favorite of the labor movement for over 80 years.More....