~
Songs of Freedom Television
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6
"Baby, It's Cold Outside!"
As much of the country welcomes February with unwelcome low temperatures, the real feel temperature is rising across our entire nation. ICE agents, federal goons hired by the President of the United States in the name of Homeland Security, have murdered and abused American citizens on city streets. The life and rights-threatening drama continues with each passing day.
Despite the freezing cold citizen response has been energized, organized, and uncompromised in Minneapolis and other American cities. Prominent performers in the worlds of music, sports, and late-night television have emerged as voices for millions. They have been outspoken and defiant, calling out the administration in defense of citizens’ rights, decency, and the Constitution.
And the struggle continues.
This month’s Songs of Freedom Television episodes acknowledges resilience and your efforts to stand strong during these trying times. Life can be cold, but we are the candles that carry the spark of hope and perseverance that will change the world.
The first two episodes of February 2026 are from the 2025 People’s Music Network summer convergence in Groton, Massachusetts. I led a well attended workshop entitled, “Songs of Spirit and Resilience in the Age of Donald Trump.” We did not know at that time that Renee Good and Alex Pretti, and other unnamed Americans, would be gunned down in the streets of American cities, but the proverbial writing was on the wall. And Donald Trump has always been fond of walls.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the workshop. I hope you found it inspiring and validating to sing and laugh together. I intend on leading this session again during the summer 2026 People’s Music Network gathering in a few months. Stay tuned to this website for details about this and how you can attend. (Check this link to get to the PMN website for the latest information and how to register for the weekend in late May or early June.)
Here are the two episodes:
Show 1: “Songs of Spirit and Resilience in the Age of Donald Trump” episode 1
Show 2: “Songs of Spirit and Resilience in the Age of Donald Trump” episode 2
Episode Three this month asks the musical question, “Is It Four Years Yet?” and answers with songs and plenty of attitude. Here it is:
Show 3: [Episode is currently being edited and will be posted shortly.]
Throughout this critical juncture of time, place, politics, and history, we have each other and the time tested knowledge that organized resistance works. We will win if we do not allow ourselves to be divided.
Keep on.
Keep your neighbors safe.
And keep singing!
~ Joel Landy, Songs of Freedom Television
ALSO
Bruce Springsteen has been one of a growing number of professional celebrities using their public platform to defy Donald Trump and what he represents.
Here is his “Streets of Minneapolis” recorded and released following Alex Pretti’s murder in that town.
Another artist that has been recording and posting videos is Jesse Welles. If you have not listened to his music, I highly recommend it. Here is his song, “Masks Off”. He sings, “All the masks are off and they don't even try. They know that you know that they know and they don't even mind it.”
And here is his, “Join ICE”, recorded at his appearance on Steven Colbert’s late night show. Who would actually join ICE, and why? It remains a question that deserves a better answer.
~
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~
Episode One: “Songs of Spirit and Resilience in the Age of Donald Trump” episode 1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmYnGI8xNZU
Episode Two: “Songs of Spirit and Resilience in the Age of Donald Trump” episode 2
Episode Three: "Is It Four Years Yet?"
[link coming]
~~~
Songs of Freedom Television.
Tune in and don’t tune out!
~~~
On your cable and online
at www.mnn.org Community Channel One
Saturday, January / 7, 14, 21, 28
QUEENS
Thursday, January / 5, 12, 19, 26
BROOKLYN
Live Streaming at Brooklyn Free Speech Television, Channel 2
Monday and Wednesday:
January / 2 and 4, 9 and 11, 16 and 18, 23 and 25
https://bronxnet.org/bxarts/
Monday, February / 2, 9, 16, 23
~
J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6
"Looking Back/Moving Forward"
Where we have been and what we have done together
As we gather our energy and courage to embrace the new year it is helpful to acknowledge and appreciate the work we have done together and the fun we had in 2025. That is what this month’s Songs of Freedom Television episodes is dedicated to and offers you all. 2025 was a year of work and challenges (Don’t we know it!), but there was community around us and fun to be had.
Episode One
The first episode of the year begins on January 1, 2025. It is morning and I am at home introducing myself to a camera and offering a song to start the year. The song is a parody featuring Elon Musk as he sings, “Nobody Loves You When You’re Up and In.” The episode and year continues, featuring my performances with the People’s Music Network and at the New England Folk Festival.
Here it is: https://youtu.be/LxNaIh7GO0k
Episode Two
I host an open mic in Forest Hills every Third Thursday of the month at Red Pipes Café. It is always fun to introduce performances and be with friends. The December 2025 open mic turned out to be a holiday party with impressive performances by friends both old and new. Thanks to Ofer and Miriam at Red Pipes for their continued support. Thanks to those who came to enjoy the music. Thanks also to the artists. You all made the evening special. The video I edited includes the talents of Bill and Katrina; Carol and Nate; Nick Caraccio; Evan Ginzburg; and yours truly. Join us at the Red Pipes Café on Third Thursdays in 2026. The music starts at 6:30 pm.
Here is that episode: https://youtu.be/A5K3EcgubuU
Episodes Three and Four
I have been involved with the New York City Friends of Clearwater for many years organizing music events and coordinating musical performances at meetings and parties hosted by the NYC Friends. Their mission is to protect and preserve the Hudson River, and is one of many “sloop clubs” up and down the river, coordinating with the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater an organization founded by Pete and Toshi Seeger almost 60 years ago.
There are monthly meetings featuring speakers supporting education and activism, but the December meeting is always reserved for entertainment and fun. I coordinated the music again this year and recorded the event for Songs of Freedom Television. Here are two episodes (29 minutes each) edited from the evening’s performances. The first of the two features the New York Metro Raging Grannies. The second of the two features a variety of NYC Friends members who had something to share and did it well. The holidays are behind us now, but the fun performances remain.
Episode Three: https://youtu.be/rvHTdTipboU
Episode Four: https://youtu.be/QqpeQCyjxp4
So, we are now into the new year. One that includes mid term elections and ongoing strife throughout the world. I hope your journey is a peaceful one. My advice is to know who you are. Know what you have. Appreciate yourself and help other people along the way. And keep singing!
Peace and Love,
Joel Landy ~ Songs of Freedom Television
~
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~
Episode One: Looking Back and Moving Forward with Joel Landy
Episode Two: The 2025 Open Mic Holiday Party at Red Pipes Cafe
Episode Three: The 2025 New York City Friends of Clearwater Holiday Celebration in Greenwich Village, featuring the New York City Metro Raging Gannies
Show Four: The 2025 New York City Friends of Clearwater Holiday Celebration in Greenwich Village, episode 2
~~~
Songs of Freedom Television.
Tune in and don’t tune out!
~~~
On your cable and online
at www.mnn.org Community Channel One
Saturday, January / 10, 17, 24, 31
QUEENS
Thursday, January / 8, 15, 22, 29
BROOKLYN
Live Streaming at Brooklyn Free Speech Television, Channel 2
Monday and Wednesday:
January / 5 and 7, 12 and 14, 19 and 21, 26 and 28
https://bronxnet.org/bxarts/
Monday, December / 5, 12, 19, 26
~
D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 5
"It's A Gift"
Counting Our Blessings and a Time for Sharing
It is December, a time when gifts are exchanged and the holiday spirit comes to town. You see it in the streets. You feel it in the air. Sometimes it feels like an imposition of expectations and an unwanted call to join some tribal ritual. The commercialism is blatant. “Where’s the spirit in that!” you may ask. Am I supposed to spend money I don’t have for a reason I don’t quite agree with on a person who I barely know? Can’t I just love the people in my life and tell them how much I appreciate them? Isn’t that enough?
I agree with all of that. However, I also believe there is a time for counting our blessings and good fortune and sharing our feelings with everyone. That is what I will be doing with Songs of Freedom Television this month. Happy holidays to you whatever you choose to celebrate and whatever you choose to call it.
I have been producing Songs of Freedom TV for almost thirty years. I am grateful for all the people who have made my contribution to the progressive media movement possible and relevant in my life. Thank you to you all. The episodes this month reflect upon the gifts I have been given and the communities that have touched my life.
Episode One
Ever since 2001, Steve Suffet has produced a Woody Guthrie tribute concert in New York City. The 2009 show took place at the Bowery Poetry Club in the East Village. Performers in that show included Jessica Feinbloom, Robin Greenstein, Anne Price, Steve Suffet, Gina Tlamsa, Carlos Vasquez, and myself. Music brought us together. That was real, and so were the friendships that remained after the show.
NOTE: This Woody Guthrie Tribute series had its most recent show in October of this year. Stay tuned for details of the next one, but for now, enjoy this gift from sixteen years ago.
Episode Two
I have been hosting the Third Thursday Open Mic at Red Pipes Café in Forest Hills, Queens, for a number of years. Every Third Thursday Open Mic has its charm and cast of talented artists. Last December I recorded the event and I share it with you tonight. The songs reflect the festive holiday mood, with a twist of humor, which is just the way I like it. Tune in to see what I mean. You can join us at the next Third Thursday event in Forest Hills on December 18. We start at 6:30 pm. I hope to see you there. (Contact me for details at SingFreedomTV@gmail.com)
Episode Three
The New York City Friends of Clearwater is an environmental organization dedicated to preserving and advocating for the health and safety of the Hudson River. Over the years I have been involved in promoting musical events raising awareness about environmental issues through and with this organization. It has been a gift to me to be involved with so many people who believe in this work, many of them talented artists. Our December meetings are parties where there is music along with food, drink, and storytelling. Tonight’s episode is from the 2024 event at Judson Memorial Church, in NYC’s Greenwich Village. Join us at our 2025 music party event on Friday, December 19. (Find out how at the NYC Friends of Clearwater website.)
Episode Four
Make Music New York is an event that takes place on June 21 in New York City, where musicians take to the streets and performance venues and gift their city with free music. This a tradition that came to my town from Paris, France almost twenty years ago. Songs of Freedom Television participated in the first such event and has been part of this celebration of life and music ever since. In that time the event has grown to other cities around the world. One added side feature to this event has been the pairing of songwriters from all corners of the world to sing covers of each other’s original songs. The recording cover artist creates a video which is shared online on June 21, "Solstice Day." I have been paired with artists who have sung my songs and I have sung theirs. Tonight’s show features these recordings. It is always a gift to me to see other people singing my music. I hope you enjoy it too.
I hope you enjoy the musical gifts coming your way this month. I also hope you get to express yourself creatively in whatever you do. That is a gift both to yourself and whoever you share it with.
May the holiday season bring you peace and joy and may good health and fortune be yours in the new year.
Peace and Love,
Joel Landy, Songs of Freedom Television
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~
Episode One: The 2009 Woody Guthrie Birthday Tribute Concert
Episode Two: The December 2024 Third Thursday Open Mic at Red Pipes Cafe in Forest Hills
Episode Three: The 2024 New York City Friends of Clearwater Holiday Celebration in Greenwich Village
Show Four: "My Song Is Your Song"
~~~
Songs of Freedom Television.
Tune in and don’t tune out!
~~~
On your cable and online
at www.mnn.org Community Channel One
Saturday, December / 6, 13, 20 27
QUEENS
Thursday, December / 4, 11, 18, 25
BROOKLYN
Live Streaming at Brooklyn Free Speech Television, Channel 2
Monday and Wednesday:
December / 8 and 10, 15 and 17, 22 and 24, 29 and 31
https://bronxnet.org/bxarts/
Monday, December / 8, 15, 22, 29
~
N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 5
November 4th was Election Day
What did you elect to do?
What will you elect to do now?
It is now November, the 11th month in the year 2025. I hope you are well and healthy. And I hope you are willing and ready to save democracy in our country. It will take work and engagement and every one of us to participate. What will you elect to do?
November Songs of Freedom Television episodes are dedicated to the notion that our noble experiment in democratic government, although far from perfect, is worth organizing around and fighting for. The episodes recognize and celebrate those who are giving of themselves for the good of all Americans, not only the privileged and the wealthy.
The first of the episode features speeches made by two energetic advocates for the working class and the politics of fairness and opportunity, Alexandria Octavio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders. I recorded their appearance at the October 26 “New York City Is Not for Sale” rally in Forest Hills, NY, when they spoke to endorse Zohar Mamdani for mayor of New York City. Speaking truth to power and reminding us that we are not powerless in the face of abuse and swagger is important in these cruel and challenging times. Don’t buy into powerlessness! You are not alone. Knowing that is our first step. Here is Episode 1.
Episode One: The New York City Is Not for Sale rally, featuring Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders
The three other episodes this month focus on art and activism and the use of performing arts to organize around social justice issues. They feature members of the People’s Music Network, (www.peoplesmusic.org) a network of artists and activists committed to this work. At the end of May of this year I organized a workshop session at the spring/summer convergence held in Massachusetts. I titled it “Songs of Spirit and Resilience in the Age of Donald Trump.” The performances were genuine and impactful. Episodes Two and Three are edited recordings from this session. Artists were asked not to pull their punches and deliver what they wanted to say in a safe space with as much energy as they cared to bring. Take a look at the links below to see the result.
Episode Two: Songs of Spirit and Resilience in the Age of Donald Trump / show 1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmYnGI8xNZU
Episode Three: : Songs of Spirit and Resilience in the Age of Donald Trump / show 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUKpQTnM5AM
Episode Four is from the People’s Music Network Winter Convergence held in New York City in January of 2025. The diverse array of performers and performances are impressive. The 2026 Convergence is set to take place again in NYC in January of 2026. Go to the PMN website to find out more so you can join us. Here’s that episode from early this year:
Show Four: Marching and Singing with the People's Music Network / January 2025, show 1
We have a lot of work to do to save our country, our families, our friends, and ourselves. The first step is to believe we can do it, find our work partners, and organize. I suggest keep singing as we do it.
In Solidarity and with Spirit,
~ Joel Landy, Songs of Freedom Television ~
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~
Episode One: The New York City Is Not for Sale rally, featuring Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders
Episode Two: Songs of Spirit and Resilience in the Age of Donald Trump / show 1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmYnGI8xNZU
Episode Three: : Songs of Spirit and Resilience in the Age of Donald Trump / show 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUKpQTnM5AM
Show Four: Marching and Singing with the People's Music Network / January 2025, show 1
~~~
Songs of Freedom Television.
Tune in and don’t tune out!
~~~
O C T O B E R 2 0 2 5
Changes and the Changeless
October brings the weather of autumn when the colors of leaves change. What else changes? The cooler weather brings out clothes we haven’t worn for a while. School has been on for a month and report cards tell us how serious we have been at it. It is a sobering time. And election day is only weeks away…
There are things, however, that do not change, real things we remember and want to be close to. Friends, family, music, and the memories of those who inspire us. They remain meaningful and a blessing in our lives. Songs of Freedom Television this month remembers and celebrates friends and those who inspire.
The first episode celebrates Faith Petric. Faith was born in a log cabin in Idaho in 1915 and led an extraordinary life (1915-2013). She became a political radical, musical organizer, and charismatic performer who united folk music and progressive causes from the 1930s through the early 2000s. Over her long and purposeful life, Petric inspired all to take responsibility for social change, women and elders to defy stereotypes, and everyone she met to sing along. She hosted singing parties in her San Francisco home for decades and touched the lives of many people while bringing them together. A recent documentary produced by Estelle Freedman and Christie Herring about her life, Singing for Justice, was aired on PBS. Faith appeared for two half hour interviews on Songs of Freedom Television in 2000.
Here is one of them.
Episode two for October features the 2023 Woody Guthrie tribute show at the New York Irish Center in Long Island City. Steve Suffet has produced a tribute concert celebrating the life and times of America’s original troubadour throughout New York City since 2001. Songs of Freedom Television has recorded every show. You are invited to attend the 2025 show live on Thursday, October 16. Woody’s memory and music continue to bring old and new friends together.
New York Irish Center – 1040 Jackson Avenue –
Long Island City, Queens, NY 11101
subway: Vernon-Jackson station on the 7 train /
more info: New York Irish Center.org
or call 718.482.0909
Artists performing in this 2023 episode include Hillel Arnold, Pat Lamanna, Joel Landy, Marie Mularczyk O’Connell, and Steve Suffet.
Tune in and sing along!
Episode 2: https://youtu.be/j_Ix-NO2Thc
Episode 3 and Episode 4 feature a community of friends that have bonded at the Third Thursday Open Mic at Red Pipes Café in Forest Hills, NY. I have been hosting the Third Thursday series for five years. In that time numerous musicians have appeared and disappeared. Some have made it a part of their monthly lives. Music and sharing time together builds community. We have been growing and enjoying one in Queens. These two episodes feature performances from the September 2025 Third Thursday Open Mic. You can join us live and express yourself during upcoming open mic events at Red Pipes, a place for tasty treats and good vibes. Red Pipes Café is located at 71-63 Austin St, Forest Hills, NY 11375 / (718) 635-0245
Here are the episodes:
Episode 3: https://youtu.be/zzF_U4OA6b4
Episode 4: https://youtu.be/axkEkEKXw5o
With all the noise, confusion, and tears going on in the world it is a comfort to know friends and share memories. So often it is music that binds our lives together, makes pain more tolerable, makes us smile, and creates more memories to always enjoy. And that will never change.
Hoping your life is filled with joy and blessings.
Keep singing!
~ Joel Landy, Songs of Freedom Television ~
~
Show One: Faith Petric on Songs of Freedom Television
Show Two: The Woody Guthrie New York Hoot 2023
Show Three: Third Thursday Open Mic at Red Pipes Cafe / September 2025, show 1
Show Four: Third Thursday Open Mic at Red Pipes Cafe / September 2025, show 2
Songs of Freedom Television.
Tune in and don’t tune out!
~~~
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 5
New Beginnings
September calls to me with the change of the weather in late August. It lets me know that I will be a year older and that school is coming soon. And football. And the new entertainment season. And a host of other seasons that tell us summer is over and need to get back to work and get our sleeping schedule back in order.
To me, September has always been about new beginnings. That is what this month’s Songs of Freedom Television is all about. New beginnings. All four episodes this month are dedicated in the spirit of new beginnings to Leonard Peltier – a member of the Chippewa and Lakota Nations – who was released from a federal prison this year after serving 49 years for a crime he may not have committed. How do you get a life back after all that time? I don’t believe you can, but you can remain a voice for indigenous people and others all around the world fighting for human rights and social justice. That is what Leonard Peltier said he is dedicated to do. That, and new beginnings outside of prison walls.
Close to fifty years of medical neglect in a federal penitentiary has caused Leonard’s health to dangerously erode. It now leaves him with severe medical conditions, including an aortic aneurysm, poorly managed diabetes, muscular degeneration, prostate infection, and sleep apnea. He is also legally blind due to years of untreated vision problems and has gone over a decade without dental care.
Peltier was celebrated at a fundraising event on August 24, 2025 in Woodstock, NY to help with medical expenses. The event was hosted by Roland Mousaa and featured numerous artists and activists.
We proudly bring you the recorded speeches and performances from that event this month on Songs of Freedom Television.
Leonard Peltier remains a warrior and an inspiration to Indigenous Peoples and others throughout the world. He is a respected and revered Elder and a historical figure such as Sitting Bull, Geronimo, and Nelson Mandela. History will welcome Leonard Peltier as a true survivor and hero.
Here are the four episodes capturing the spirit and performances from the Leonard Peltier “Eyes for Arts” benefit concert.
Show One: featuring Leonard Peltier, David Amram, Roland Mousaa, and Tom Desisto
Show Two: featuring Gayle Two Eagles, Paul McMahon, and Manna Jo Greene
Show Three: featuring Joel Landy and Spook Handy
Show Four: featuring Leonard Peltier, Paul McMahon, Spook Handy, and Joel Landy
Songs of Freedom Television. Tune in and don’t tune out!
Keep talking, and as my good friend Spook Handy reminds us,
“Always have a song to sing!”
Music, peace, joy, and new beginnings,
Joel Landy, Songs of Freedom Television
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~~~
On your cable and online
at www.mnn.org Community Channel One
Saturday, September / 6, 13, 20, 27
QUEENS
Thursday, September / 4, 11, 18, 25
BROOKLYN
Live Streaming at Brooklyn Free Speech Television, Channel 2
Monday and Wednesday:
September / 8 and 10, 15 and 17, 22 and 24, 29 and October 1
https://bronxnet.org/bxarts/
Monday, September / 8, 15, 22, 29
~
A U G U S T 2 0 2 5
S U M M E R F U N !
It is hot outside and online too!
The summer months bring us music festivals and other fun in the sun. This month’s Songs of Freedom Television episodes feature performances from the Summer of 2025. We begin with the June open Mic at Red Pipes Café. Following that we feature the annual Porch Stomp on Governors Island. That very same day (June 21) was the summer solstice celebration brought to us by Make Music New York and World Music Day. Songs of Freedom threw a music party on the streets of Forest Hills, as we do every year. Performances from that make up August’s episode three. Finally, the July Third Thursday Open Mic at Red Pipes Café is featured. The monthly event happens again on Thursday, August 21. You are invited to join us. (click on link for information and directions). We start at 6:30 pm. Bring a song or sing along and enjoy the delicious treats at Red Pipes Café.
Here are links to this month’s episodes. You can also stream them online or watch on your cable television.
Show One: June 2025 Third Thursday Open Mic at Red Pipes Café in Forest Hills, NY
Show Two: 2025 Porch Stomp on Governors Island (June 21, 2025)
Show Three: Make Music New York 2025 at Red Pipes Café (June 21, 2025)
Show Four: July 2025 Third Thursday Open Mic at Red Pipes Café in Forest Hills, NY
~
Four events. The summer vibe is alive and well with lots of music and lots of fun. I hope you enjoy it. With all the trouble going on in the world these days music and positive energy can give us all solace and hope, at least for a little while. You deserve to smile and a place to go to have a good time. Tune in. You’ll be glad you did. And keep singing!
Music, peace, and joy,
Joel Landy, Songs of Freedom Television
Tune in, and don’t tune out!
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
July is the heart of the summer.
Are you feeling it?
The summer music is heating up!
Songs of Freedom Television in July celebrates singer songwriters in the tradition of America’s original troubadour, Woody Guthrie, who was born July 14, 1912, in Okemah, Oklahoma. Woody’s legacy spawned the likes of Bob Dylan, Tom Paxton, Phil Ochs, Billy Bragg, and a legion of other songwriters telling the truth with courage and a guitar.
Woody wrote “This Land Is Your Land.” And it still is – if we wake up to that notion and take action in the name of equity and equality. The Woody Guthrie tradition continues with voices and faces throughout our diverse country. One place it does is in New York City every year since 2001, when Steve Suffet produces a tribute concert.
The first two episodes this month feature the Woody Guthrie tribute show that took place at the Old Stone House in Brooklyn in November of 2018. The performers you will see include Vincent Cross, Emma Graves, Amy Dee, Joel Landy, Nancy Moccaldi, and Steve Suffet.
Here they are: Episode One Episode Two
~
The Peoples’ Voice Café is the premiere progressive venue in New York City. It continues the tradition of troubadour performances at an affordable price and has been doing so for more than 40 years. Shows three and four this month showcase two episodes of recent vintage.
Episode Three
I have had the honor and pleasure of playing at the Peoples’ Voice Café numerous times during the past 20 years. Occasionally, those performances have coincided with the upcoming Election Day. Here’s a performance video dated October 27, 2018, right before the mid-term election. We had a self-promoting aggrandizing President at the time doing a lot of damage to this country and a Congress that was going along for the ride, taking us with them down a path of deception and thievery. Well … in comedy, timing is everything. In political stage art too. It’s time to run that show back again. Here’s what it looked like that night in New York City.
Episode Three: Joel Landy at the Peoples' Voice Café in Manhattan, October 27, 2018.
~
Episode Four
Episode Four in July features the talented Pat Wictor. I shared the stage with Pat at the People’s Voice Café shortly after the Covid lockdown had ended. It was Pat’s first public appearance since before the lockdown began in March of 2020. If you haven’t seen Pat perform tune in tonight. You will be glad you did. If you have seen Pat play you know what I mean. His well written songs and musicality are impressive and memorable.
Episode Four: Pat Wictor at the Peoples’ Voice Café, October 30, 2021.
~
We live in turbulent times. Music and speaking your mind will help us through it all. Finding your friends and singing with them will make our hard earned trail easier – and more fun.
“Take it easy. But take it!” – Woody Guthrie
Peace and joy to you all,
Joel Landy, Songs of Freedom Television
~
Tune in, and don’t tune out!
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~~~
On your cable and online
at www.mnn.org Community Channel One
Saturday, July / 5, 12, 19, 26
QUEENS
Thursday, July / 10, 17, 24, 31
BROOKLYN
Live Streaming at Brooklyn Free Speech Television, Channel 2
Monday and Wednesday:
July / 7 and 9, 14 and 16, 21 and 23, 28 and 30
https://bronxnet.org/bxarts/
Monday, July / 7, 14, 21, 28
~
J U N E
Bring on the Music! Bring on the Fun! Make Music New York and More!!
Bring on the music! Bring on the Fun!
If you have been reading this web page over the years you know that June is my favorite month.
It's not just because I am a schoolteacher, although that helps! More hours of sunlight and pleasant weather and colorful flowers and singing birds...
the spirit is sweet and the season is calling us to share ourselves and play outside.
AND
The promise of summer is upon us – and we haven’t ruined it yet!
AND ... if you are a musician, music and music festivals are everywhere!
There is one particular music celebration Songs of Freedom Television devotes itself to this month.
Do you know about Make Music New York?
WHAT IS MAKE MUSIC NEW YORK?
Make Music New York is inspired by France’s “Fête de la Musique,” a national musical holiday inaugurated in 1982. Ever since, the event has become an international phenomenon, currently celebrated on the same day in more than 700 cities around the world. I have been hosting MMNY events at Red Pipes Café (formerly Red Pipe) in Forest Hills for the past few years and am proud to say that I have participated as a host and as a performer in this all day event since it came to my city from France 18 years ago.
Special thanks to Ofer and Red Pipes Cafe for their continued support and participation in sponsoring this annual event, Special thanks also to the musicians who came to play and everyone who wandered into the recording of this show. It took all of us to make this special evening happen ... and the power of song.
The first Songs of Freedom Television episode this month features World Music Day and Make Music NY at Red Pipes Cafe.
Make Music NY at Red Pipes Cafe
Join us this year as we make "musique" again at Red Pipes and play outside the café on Austin Street, in the heart of Forest Hills. We will set up chairs on the sidewalk and we have a sound permit to amplify our efforts. We start at 6:30 pm and go on till after dark. Join us to sing and/or be part of a fun New Yawk street scene with generous doses of serendipity and a supporting strolling cast of hundreds – many of whom are amused and surprised to be serenaded as they pass by.
Click this link for the Facebook Event page and directions to Red Pipes on Austin Street.
The second episode this month showcases the annual June Porch Stomp held on Governors Island. It has become part of the same World Music Day that brings us Make Music New York. This year they both occur on the Summer Solstice, June 21.
Here is some more about this year's Porch Stomp.
And here is an episode featuring Songs of Freedom TV and the Porch Stomp. It's only a ferry ride away, but you can see it right here, right now.
The third and fourth episodes this month brings attention to the People's Music Network and their mission to bring artists and activists together to validate their voices and make the world a better place with their art and humanity. Their 2025 summer gathering took place during Memorial Day weekend.
WARNING:
These fresh episodes are very political. If you like Donald Trump and his political agenda you may have to leave the room.
That being said, here are two episodes edited from a workshop I facilitated called, "Songs of Spirit and Resilience in the Age of Donald Trump."
You can find out more about the People's Music Network at www.peoplesmusic.org
They say that freedom is a constant struggle. That path is made easier by finding your friends, singing, and expressing yourself. I hope you have that in your life.
I have a T-shirt that asks "Is it four years yet?"
Until it is we have each other and that's a start.
Keep talking and keep singing. And don't forget to organize. Peace and solidarity.
~ joel landy, songs of freedom television ~
~
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~ M A Y 2025 ~
MAY We Remember!
Commemerating and Celebrating
Those Who Are Still With Us In Spirit
It has become a ritual tradition at Songs of Freedom Television to play episodes during the month of May that celebrate the lives of those who have left us, but whose work and spirit remain. This year is no different. We do not only celebrate a Memorial Day. We celebrate the entire month.
We Remember . . .
The first episode in MAY We Remember coincides with the May birthday of Pete Seeger. There is so much to know about his life and legacy, and I bet you know quite a bit already.
At the 2023 New England Folk Festival I hosted an hour-long tribute to Pete. There was great music and illuminating stories shared at that session. Tune in as we celebrate Pete Seeger and the Power of Song.
Episode two features and remembers my friend and brother, Eric Levine, who left us in 2008. There is a lot I could tell you about Eric, including his unrelenting moral clarity and service to others. I could also say that he was a talented musician, producer, and songwriter who introduced me to a world of activist artists that have become my second family. I would rather tell you that Eric was a gentle spirit who touched the lives of many people and left the world a better place than it had been. Watch the episode devoted to his memory and you will know what I mean.
The episode is one of the first Songs of Freedom Television shows. It was a live performance in October of 1996, in front of a studio audience.
The third show this month remembers the life and contributions of Ray Korona, who I met at People’s Music Network gatherings and whose company I always enjoyed. Ray was singer/songwriter, band leader, recording engineer, activist, organizer – a busy fellow who walked the walk when it came to progressive issues. I could go on and on about Ray, how he was a driving force at the Peoples’ Voice Café for many years and how he recorded and produced one of my CDs, and how he celebrated and encouraged new artists.
We lost Ray years ago, but his memory and accomplishments remain. Our Songs of Freedom episode featuring Ray brings us back to 1997 when he and his band visited the SOF stage. There was a live audience and lots of good music. Tune in. You'll be glad you did.
Show four is called "A Song for Jessica" and is a tribute to the late Jessica Feinbloom. Jessica was a soulful singer, patron of the arts, and a respected participant in the New York City folk scene for many years. Tonight we remember her presence and her voice. What makes the show most memorable is that in addition to featuring the memory of Jessica, the late Toby Fagenson and Frank Woerner also appear as performers in this show. We remember and salute them all.
Here are the episodes for this month (see below). You can watch them here or I can see you on the telly at the appointed hour.
Keep on singing!
~ joel landy, songs of freedom television ~
~
Show 1: Pete Seeger and The Power of Song
Show 2: Remembering Eric Levine
Show 3: Remembering Ray Korona and Sol Weber
Show 4: "A Song for Jessica" a tribute to Jessica Feinbloom
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~
~ A P R I L 2025 ~
Every Day is Earth Day
Years ago a Native American friend told me something that he observed that shows a difference between the way European Americans see their relationship with our planet and the way his culture taught him about it. Europeans and Americans will speak of “Peace on Earth”, while he was taught to think, feel, and speak “Peace with Earth.”
Do you catch the nuance here?
“Peace on Earth” is a notion. “Peace with Earth” is a responsible relationship.
“Peace on Earth” intones tranquility on this planet with no direct ties to the person saying it. “Peace with Earth” is a respectful acknowledgement that we bare the task of stewardship and that the way we treat Earth is the way Earth will treat us. People and the planet will live together . . . until they don’t.
I was thinking of this lesson when I prepared Songs of Freedom episodes to show you in the month of April, a month where we welcome the spring and its promise of Earthly rebirth. This month Songs of Freedom will bring you episodes featuring “Peace with Earth” and efforts being made in that direction. We will start with a show chronicling the efforts of Canadian peace activists. Peace Train Canada pursues world peace and the abolishment of nuclear weapons worldwide. Citizens rode across Canada and to the United Nations in New York City in early March of this year. They made their trip to urge their Canadian government to sign the nuclear non-proliferation treaty to be discussed and signed by nations around the world.
You can find out more about Peace Train Canada by clicking here.
You can find out more about the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) by clicking here.
On March 5th, when Peace Train Canada was in New York, singer/songwriter Christophe Elie organized an evening about their mission. It featured speakers and music.
Here is that show: https://vimeo.com/1070539026?
Shows two, three, and four this month recall the efforts of the late Phil Sauers and Pete Seeger. Pete once said that what countries around the world need is clean water, not more weapons. Phil picked up on that notion and organized around it. I assisted him in producing a series of “Water Not Weapons” musical events at the fabled Yippie Museum Café at 9 Bleeker in NYC’s Greenwich Village. There were five such sessions. I bring you three episodes from the third show from December of 2009.
These shows offer a look back and a look forward as we pursue a healthy future and “Peace with Earth.” My Native American friend also made me away of another distinction he found between European Americans and his culture. My people would be more likely to say that “we are humans having a spiritual experience,” whereas, his tradition teaches we are “spiritual beings having a human experience.”
I prefer the sound of that.
Have a great month. Enjoy the spring.
And keep on singing!
Joel
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Show One: Peace Train Canada https://vimeo.com/1070539026?
Show Two: Water Not Weapons III, show 1 https://vimeo.com/661206279?
featuring Joel Landy, Phil Sauers, Ray Korona, Spook Handy
Show Three: Water Not Weapons III, show 2 https://vimeo.com/661206279?
featuring Joel Landy, Rachel Stone, James Cannings, Spook Handy
Show Four: Water Not Weapons III, show 3 https://vimeo.com/661205254
featuring Ray Korona, Pat Lamanna, Mary Poppins, Steve Suffet, Caitlin O’Heaney, Jay Byrd, Gloria Waslyn and the Parrots for Peace
~ joel landy, songs of freedom television ~
~
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~~~
On your cable and online
~
~ M A R C H 2025 ~
Marching Into Spring
Every day seems to bring us another new reason to be alarmed about the Trump 47 presidency and his intentions to destroy the institutional pillars of our democracy. If it isn’t a cabinet hearing and appointment of an unqualified and carefully selected fealty-worthy crony, it is an announcement of taking territory in or renaming another sovereign land. If it isn’t that it is the withholding of congressionally promised funds for health and education. If it isn’t that it is blatant attacks against civil rights and the books we are allowed to read and curriculum allowed in schools. If it isn’t that it is the antics of Elon Musk and his rapacious band of computer system hackers. And the list goes on. If there is one thing in common about all of these sobering issues and stories it is that we are all affected and that it is up to us to RESIST and hold representatives on both sides of the isle accountable. And that we need to be loud about it. We are fighting for our social and economic lives. Red state Republicans announce their support for what Trump is doing…and then realize that citizens in their states are losing their quality of life and jobs too. They are not being spared. And many face reelection in 2026. Our republic is being tested and strained. Trump, his executive orders and his crew will push their power as far as they can take it. It will be up to us (and maybe the courts) to save our country, the future of our children, and democracy itself. Other nations are watching us and wonder if they can ever trust us again. And who can blame them? Many have their own internal issues to worry about as they watch and take cues from the old big dog in the political arena.
Clearly, our immediate future is fraught.
Organizing and resisting is critical. And so is singing.
Songs of Freedom Television offers you four shows this month that acknowledge and celebrate the dignity of human struggle with its many faces and many voices as we March and sing our way into the spring of 2025.
The first two shows showcase performances at the People’s Music Network Winter Convergence held in New York City in January of this year. PMN is an organization comprised of activists and artists using their creativity and voice to organize for a progressive and peaceful society and world. (Find out more about People’s Music Network at www.peoplesmusic.org)
Powerful performances and well written songs are always part of PMN events. This month’s episodes bring you the best of the best. Tune in, get involved, and take action.
Show 1
Marching and Singing with the People's Music Network, show 1
Show 2
Marching and Singing with the People's Music Network, show 2
Show 3
What You See Is What You Get
This episode features my performances at recent PMN round robins, both online and in person. Songs include, “On the Border”, “Governments Lie, Governments Kill, and Governments Die”, “I Wonder Why”, and “Don’t Give Me That Old Time Religion.”
Show 4
Cry Freedom!
The final episode this month features more performances at the People’s Music Network online and in person gatherings, but starts with a recent rewrite of a song that you know well, “Those Were The Days.”
Once this country had a Constitution
Protecting everybody living here.
A Bill of Rights offered us protection
From criminals who’d have us live in fear
…Those were the days, my friend.
We thought they’d never end
And there was freedom in things we’d do and say.
Our kids and savings grew.
We’d vote. It counted too.
Those were the days.
Oh yes, those were the days.
We need to remember that we are the majority in this nation and that the power of fear is Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s greatest weapon. We need to remember this as we organize and resist and persist.
And keep on singing!
…These are the days, my friend,
When sleeping silence ends.
We claim our future. We're fighting for our lives.
Around the world we rise. Occupy. Organize.
These are the days.
Oh yes, these are the days.
~ joel landy, songs of freedom television ~
~
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~~~
On your cable and online
~ FEBRUARY 2025 ~
"It was the best of times. It was the worst of times,
it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to heaven, we were all going direct the other way–in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only.” ~ Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities
We are scant weeks into the second Donald Trump presidency and the gauntlet has been thrown down. Survive or perish. Capitulate or suffer. Capitulate and suffer. Chaos and loyalty. Loyalty or else. The flash bang of executive orders the tumult that follows. The swamp of crony executives. The Congress of excuse makers who do not feel the pain.
We must have been here before, but it is hard to remember when it was like this.
So what are you doing to get by and survive and be presuming enough to smile and enjoy your life?
May I recommend live music in a local venue? You don’t need to spend a lot of money to see good music where you live. I have been participating at open mics where I live and have been going to live shows. The music is usually good and I make new friends. This month’s Songs of Freedom Television is devoted to the notion that making art and being with people is a good way to remember to have fun while we do what we need to do to get through troubled times.
Shows One and Two are recordings from the Third Thursday Open Mic at Red Pipes Café in Forest Hills. I host that open mic. The first show features performance by me and Rockin' Roll Johnny Bod. Tune in and sing along!
Episode Two showcases performances by Joe Carranza, Frederick Chipkin, Steve Cornell, and Jack.
The third show features my performance at the Austin Ale House open mic in Kew Gardens, Queens, on October 13, 2024. It was a spirited set and lots of fun, with group singing and kazoos for everybody. (Tune in to find out what that means.)
The fourth episode this month is “On the Border.”
I borrowed an Al Stewart song and added a verse.
"Undercurrents flowing in the same direction.
Channels with their noise go on without detection.
The wind whips up the cultish fear.
What happens next is never clear
When what you have can disappear on the border."
We are all on the border now.
Stand together and we will not fall.
And keep singing.
~ Joel Landy, Songs of Freedom Television ~
~
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~~~
On your cable and online
~
~ JANUARY 2025 ~
A New Year and A Big Challenge
We know that 2025 will bring us changes at the White House and the agenda of the President will be to make money and consolidate power. He will molify the world's richest man and the other billionaires he invites to government with titles and promises of power and money.
We know this. So, what do we do to survive and thrive during the next administration? I recommend to first focus on staying healthy and strong. Get your sleep. Move your body. You don't have to be a world class athlete. You have to be around when this mess is over. Eat smart. Find your friends.
And dare to smile. And laugh.
We have each other and what we dare to enjoy.
In that spirit, Songs of Freedom Television in January 2025 offers you a look back at SOF over the years. For those who don't know, we've been doing this work since July of 1996. This month we look at and remember shows of the past quarter century where we can find hope, strength, and fun.
We all have work to do. I look forward to engaging this challenge with you.
~ Joel Landy, Songs of Freedom Television ~
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Here are the episodes for this month.
Show 1 https://vimeo.com/786290273?
Hello 2025! Show #1 this year celebrates the first two years of Songs of Freedom. It features performances from Pat Humphries, Bev Grant, Howard Kaspin, Joel Landy, and Professor Louie. It also includes a sampler of faces & voices from SOF TV since 1996.
Show 2 https://vimeo.com/786290409?
This show is from 2000 and highlights the talent and political attitude of economics professors David Liebman and Gil Skillman. Both gentlemen humorously define and represent the dignity of human struggle. Tune in and sing along!
Show 3 https://vimeo.com/592558181?
On September 11, 2001, Fire Company Engine 33, Ladder 9 in southern Manhattan lost one quarter of its workforce saving the lives of New Yorkers. One month later I produced a show raising funds for their families. Join us as we "Remember the Heroes."
Show 4 https://vimeo.com/786290502?
In 2003 at the late and great 22-Below performance space in Manhattan I produced an evening of political cabaret. It was election season and the Iraq War was on. Go back in time twenty years and tune in to 2003, raise your banners, and sing along!
~
Stay tuned, and keep singing
with Songs of Freedom Television!
~~~
On your cable and online
Here is a plaque for an award the Alliance for Community Media bestowed upon Songs of Freedom Television in 1997. This was for the work done during our first year on TV.
The Alliance for Community Media is a trade group and an organization comprised of public access television professionals. They lobby in Washington DC for your right to create video and have it seen and have it paid for by the commercial corporate entities in your town entering your home and your mind every day. Always an uphill battle. They are also the people who work in access centers. Members also include community access producers like myself. I was honored to receive an award, more so to have the award represent the category of Empowerment, a word that means a lot to me.
I stopped entering the annual competitions a number of years ago, not because I have an attitude about them or because I have “been there and done that.” It is just not where my energy lives now. I seek to do the good work and fight the good fight because it is the right thing to do. I seek to acknowledge others who travel the same road and inspire with creativity and vision. I seek and do that while daring to express myself and have fun along the way.
I am glad you are here to share the journey with me.
Don't forget to laugh as you change the world.
~ Joel ~
Do you know about the Peoples' Voice Café?
It is New York City's premiere progressive venue.
Proof of vaccination is required for audiences, staff and artists.
Your safety is important to us.
The 2021-2022 season continues on Saturday nights, at
Judson Memorial Church Assembly Hall at 239 Thompson Street
in the heart of New York City's historic Greenwich Village.
For details and more information about the Peoples' Voice Café, including the season schedule and how you can become a volunteer, go to:
www.peoplesvoicecafe.org and the PVC Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/peoplesvoicecafe/
