The significance of protest music in St. Louis and American history

The significance of protest music in St. Louis and American history

From St. Louis on the Air by St. Louis Public Radio

April 17, 2026 · 32 min

About this episode

This episode explores the significance of protest music in St. Louis and American history, featuring local favorites and insights from artists and scholars.

Protest and activism come in many forms, including music that draws attention to current issues that artists find most pressing, and important. On this episode of “The Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air,” St. Louisans share their favorite protest songs and what that music means to them. We also hear from hip-hop artist KVTheWriter about her latest diss tracks aimed at Mayor Cara Spencer, developer Paul McKee and Congressman Wesley Bell, and talk with WashU professor Lauren Eldridge Stewart about the history of protest music.

People in this episode

Guests: Lauren Eldridge Stewart, Kvthewriter

Topics covered

  • protest music
  • activism
  • St. Louis
  • American history
  • hip-hop

Keywords

  • diss tracks
  • Mayor Cara Spencer
  • Paul McKee
  • Wesley Bell

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air

Places: St. Louis

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