Arts & Entertainment
Music as a Movement: 'Which Side?' Concert Series Returns
Concerts series uses local author's protest music book as a starting point to spark performance, discussion, and community.
In a time when it feels like everything is on the line, what's a person to do? You could rage against the machine, or you could listen to the music that does it for you. Or, better yet, you could do both. That's the idea behind the concert and discussion series Which Side?: A Protest Music Teach-Out, which returns this fall to the Burren Back Room in Somerville with a powerful new lineup.
Organized by a collective of local concerned citizens, the series uses author James Sullivan’s book, Which Side Are You On?: 20th Century American History in 100 Protest Songs, as a starting point. Each event dives into the history and power of protest music, blending live performance with conversation about how music gives voice to resistance and change.
This upcoming installment, the fourth in the series, will feature an all-star lineup of local musicians, including Rick Berlin, Will Dailey, Thea Hopkins, Aaron Perrino (The Sheila Divine), Cliff Notez, and Chad Stokes (Dispatch). Each artist will perform two songs: one inspired by Sullivan’s book and one of their own, all backed by the stellar house band, The Paid Protesters.
Producer Joyce Linehan perfectly sums up the series' mission. "My instinct in times of tumult is always to gather people and check on them," she says. "That's what we are doing with this series. We are celebrating our shared culture—one of music and art, concern, and empathy. And we are building community."
The energy in the room at past events has been electric, with sold-out crowds and artists and audiences alike expressing how much they "needed this." It’s more than just a concert; it's a vital reminder of the power we have when we come together.
Get Your Tickets and Join the Chorus
Ready to feel the power of music and community? Don't miss this incredible night of protest music and passionate discussion.
Event Details:
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- Date & Time: Tuesday, October 28, 8:00 p.m. (doors at 7:00 p.m.)
- Location: The Burren Back Room, 247 Elm St, Somerville, MA
- Admission: Pay-what-you-want. Proceeds support the musicians, staff, and a nonprofit dedicated to protecting intellectual freedom.
Tickets are going fast, and reservations are strongly suggested. Reserve your tickets here and make sure you're part of this important conversation.
