Labor Music

When we think back on large social movements in the United States, one of the most pervasive was the labor movement of the early twentieth century.  With an increase in factory work, experimental technology, lacking oversight, and large influxes of immigrants, the American labor ecosystem was rapidly changing.  It was during these years that many catastrophic workplace accidents sprung up across the country.  From the fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Company that killed dozens of women to the Fairmont Coal Company explosion that killed 362 men and boys, accidents and apathetic
factory owners led to mass uproars.  It was during this time that unions became so vital to the collective action of American citizens.

Unions found that one of the most effective ways to reach the vulnerable working class was through music.  Their music appealed both to those actively seeking change as well as those who might have otherwise settled for low labor and living standards.  Music was a tool for raising awareness and asking for assembly around issues of contention.  Especially considering the advancement and popularity of radio broadcasting, music was both a tool for cultural expression but also political resistance.  Similar to broadside ballads, labor tunes were folksongs by nature, springing up directly from the people and issues of the time.  They were often sung to familiar tunes, allowing many demographics to catch on to them.  A well known organizer of the International Workers of the World, Joe Hill, was one of the largest voices of this time.

An example of his work focused on the elderly after working was no longer a viable option for them.
In The Old Toiler, Hill gave insight into the common thought of those faced with retirement while having no sustainable income.

"Darling I am growing old'' --

So the toiler told his wife --

"Father Time the days have tolled

Of my usefulness in life.

Just tonight my master told me

He can't use me any more.

Oh, my darling, do not scold me,

When the wolf comes to our door.''

CHORUS:

To the scrap heap we are going

When we're overworked and old --

When our weary heads are showing

Silver threads among the gold.

"Darling, I am growing old --''

He once more his wife did tell --

"All my labor pow'r I've sold

I have nothing more to sell.

Though I'm dying from starvation

I shall shout with all my might

To the coming generation.

I shall shout with all my might --"

A more modern version of a labor movement song came from Pete Seeger and the Almanac Singers.  In a form commonly called blues talk, Seeger used spoken word and a familiar tune to share many struggles faced by union organizers.   This  song was named after the style of speaking/playing. Here is Seeger and the Almanac Singers.

These labor songs from the early 1900s and more contemporary are meant to be both reflective of the issues at the time and a call to action.  They shared stories of poverty, death, and lost hope but also worked to arouse energy in those willing to stand for change.  They targeted especially the migrant workers who would be willing to work for very low wages despite union squabbles, and therefore would take away all bargaining power the unions held.  In targeting these groups, their membership was diversified, strong, and mobile across many states.

To see other example of popular union songs, check out this link. The 10 Best Union Songs of All Time