Music Challenge Day 10: Billie Holiday - “Strange Fruit"

The first time I heard this song, I didn’t know who it was by or what it was about. All I knew was that from the first words my skin started crawling and I had to get away from it. Music doesn’t usually affect me that way. I’ve been moved by many songs but this one hurt to the point where I can honestly say I don’t think I’ve ever voluntarily listened to the whole thing in one sitting. ‘Sad’ isn’t a strong enough word for what it makes me feel but I suppose it’s a good starting point if I ever had to describe it. Here’s Strange Fruit:

For those who aren’t familiar with the meaning behind it, the song is about people hanging from trees, not fruit. To an extent, it brings to mind the ability of ordinary humans (not psychopaths) to set aside their ‘humanity’ to torture/maim/murder others (or sit back and watch without intervening). It’s happened throughout history at different points for different reasons but it’s important not to become complacent and think we’ve outgrown that level of cruelty as a species.

☮️

Right, the rules: