A PEOPLE'S HISTORY OF MUSIC

Worm
Film

Eric Isaacson of Mississippi Records presents an audiovisual lecture about music that flourished under authoritarian regimes. From Ethiopia to North Korea, discover how artists bypassed censorship through samizdat tapes and hidden messages. A fascinating journey through archival material full of unexpected stories and unique music. This lecture is in English.

Discover music under pressure

Eric Isaacson has been traveling the world for twelve years with his unique presentations. This edition is a combination of a slideshow, lecture, and film screening. Eric tells the story of music scenes that survived under authoritarian rule, such as in Ethiopia, North Korea, Kenya, and the US. He shows how those in power try to control music and how people escape that control. Think of samizdat tapes, secret messages in pop songs, and DIY scenes that connect communities under pressure.

Surprising insights and archival material

During the presentation, you will also see unintentionally funny musical attempts by fascists and states. You will hear about the peculiar relationship between new age music and fascism. Eric presents archival footage, audio clips, and photos. With his modest and humorous style, he dives into hidden treasures and the remarkable stories behind them. Eric shares his own experiences with the rise of fascism, but in a subtle way.

About Eric Isaacson and Mississippi Records

Eric Isaacson is the founder of Mississippi Records in Portland, Oregon. In 23 years, he has released more than 390 records and 165 mixtapes. The music ranges from punk and African guitar griots to Greek underground music, country blues, gospel, and spiritual jazz. For the first seventeen years, the label had no website or social media and sold more than a million records from a record store where you could only pay with cash.