Alice Gerrard is one of those folks who has had a huge influence on folk music in America - at least east if the Mississippi, regardless of how one chooses to define folk music. This is a lengthy interview, well worth the listen if one is interested in the confluence of women breaking into 'Bluegrass' and the confluence of traditional Appalachian and southern music with social activism.

And how it grew. At least for her, and from her perspective, for Hazel Dickens.

This may only be of interest to me, but I hope not.
Alice Gerrard interview

When Alice Gerrard was a child, music was just a fun social activity with her family. Little did she know that she would become one of the female pioneers of bluegrass and folk music. Her collaboration with Hazel Dickens in the 1960s produced anthems for the women's rights and labor movements.   

Now, decades later, Alice Gerrard has become an icon for female singers and songwriters. At 80, she will release a new album at the end of the month featuring tracks with artists several decades her junior: Hiss Golden Messenger and Megafaun. The album, Follow the Music, will be released September 30. She will play at Carrboro Arts Center on October 30 with MC Taylor of Hiss Golden Messenger.

Host Frank Stasio talks with Alice Gerrard about her music and her career.