“Strange Fruit” is a powerful and haunting song that was originally recorded by Billie Holiday in 1939. The song is a protest against the lynching of African Americans, particularly in the Southern United States. The lyrics were written by Abel Meeropol, a Jewish-American teacher, songwriter, and activist.
About The Song
“Strange Fruit” uses vivid and metaphorical language to describe the gruesome reality of lynching, with lyrics that evoke the image of black bodies hanging from trees. The song was groundbreaking for its time, addressing racial violence and injustice in a stark and unflinching manner.
Billie Holiday’s recording of “Strange Fruit” is particularly notable for its emotional impact. Her poignant and soulful delivery adds a layer of depth to the song’s already powerful message. The stark contrast between the song’s evocative lyrics and Holiday’s emotive interpretation made “Strange Fruit” a landmark in the history of protest and socially conscious music.
“Strange Fruit” remains a significant cultural and historical touchstone, recognized for its role in challenging racial inequality and inspiring social change. The song has been covered and referenced by many artists over the years, cementing its place as a seminal work in American music.
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Lyric
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Southern trees bear a strange fruit
Blood on the leaves and blood at the root
Black bodies swingin’ in the Southern breeze
Strange fruit hangin’ from the poplar trees
Pastoral scene of the gallant South
The bulgin’ eyes and the twisted mouth
Scent of magnolias sweet and fresh
Then the sudden smell of burnin’ flesh
Here is a fruit for the crows to pluck
For the rain to gather
For the wind to suck
For the sun to rot
For the tree to drop
Here is a strange and bitter crop