Gil Scott-Heron facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Gil Scott-Heron
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Gil Scott-Heron performing in Sweden, 2011
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Gilbert Scott-Heron |
| Born | April 1, 1949 Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Died | May 27, 2011 (aged 62) New York City, U.S. |
| Genres | Soul, jazz, blues, proto-rap |
| Occupation(s) | Poet, singer, songwriter, author |
| Instruments | Vocals, electric piano, guitar |
| Years active | 1969–2011 |
Gilbert "Gil" Scott-Heron (born April 1, 1949 – died May 27, 2011) was an American poet, musician, and writer. He was famous for his unique style of spoken-word music, which blended poetry with soul music and jazz. This style became very popular in the 1960s and 1970s.
Gil Scott-Heron is especially known for his powerful poem and song called The Revolution Will Not Be Televised. This work was very important in the black protest movement and helped shape the sound of rap music.
In 2010, he released one of his last albums, titled I'm New Here.
Contents
Gil Scott-Heron's Music and Message
Gil Scott-Heron used his music and poetry to talk about important social and political issues. He often spoke about things like poverty, racism, and injustice. His words were sharp and thought-provoking, making people think about the world around them.
The Revolution Will Not Be Televised
This famous song, released in 1971, is one of Gil Scott-Heron's most well-known works. It uses a strong, rhythmic spoken-word style over a musical background. The song's title became a popular saying, meaning that real change happens through people's actions, not just by watching things on TV. It encouraged people to get involved and make a difference.
His Influence on Hip Hop
Many people see Gil Scott-Heron as a pioneer of rap music. His way of speaking rhythmically over beats, telling stories, and sharing powerful messages directly influenced early rap artists. He showed how words and music could be used together to create a strong voice for change. His work laid some of the groundwork for the rap genre that grew so popular later on.
Images for kids
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Scott-Heron performing at the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco, 2009
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Scott-Heron performing at the Göta Källare nightclub in Stockholm, Sweden, in 2010
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New York City artist Chico painted this commemorative on the side of a building.
See also
In Spanish: Gil Scott-Heron para niños
