Carnegie Hall

Freedom songs were anthems of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and a potent catalyst for change. These were songs that were made to be sung together in groups to unify the movement and deliver strong, clear messages of liberation. Musically, they are accessible, direct, and repetitive. They embody a range of emotions—joy, sadness, determination, defiance, hope. Many were originally spirituals, but the lyrics were altered to reflect a renewed purpose.

Starr Busby, who accepts all pronouns said with respect, grew up in Texas, but music has taken them all over the world. Starr truly believes that music and art are a deeply powerful practice; they consider all the music they make an offering or gift to whomever listens. Starr hopes that their songs will help people see themselves, their community, and their current circumstances in a new or different way that encourages people to look not just with their eyes or intellect but also with their hearts. Starr’s goal is to create an entry point to personal liberation which will ultimately lead to collective liberation.