The Revolution Will Not Be Televised – Gil Scott-Heron
Recorded
April 19, 1971
RCA Studios, New York City
Considered “The Godfather of Hip Hop” Gil Scott-Heron didn’t particularly like that reference. (Thanks to Gil’s son Rumal for sending me Gil’s book). The Revolution song was actually more of an underground smash. I can’t find a reference to it charting. It was banned by several radio stations because of its truth and the mention of crooked political leaders at the time. In addition, many black stations were independently owned stations and they were terrified of playing music like this because of the possible backlash from racists, racist advertisers and simply being able to operate in their markets without having their license renewals targeted. Black radio was making money back then so they had to walk on eggshells. Nonetheless, for Gil, the song was his biggest hit. Click NEXT above or below for the next song.
