Pinching musical phrases and stylistic approaches has always been a part of art making and can be a respectful exchange. But shallow, ill-informed appropriation only perpetuates tired stereotypes.
Musicians were able to connect with confused, scared and angry Americans – including those who supported the war – in a way actors, broadcasters and writers could not.
Rock music against military conscription during 1980s South Africa resonated with wider fault lines in Afrikaner society - this as the apartheid regime’s grip on power started to slip.
The airwaves were once dominated by rock gods delivering blistering guitar solos. Times have changed but a new crop of electric guitarists are strumming their way to glory.
In 2000, Berry’s longtime piano player sued him, claiming he never got any credit for songs he had co-written. Even though the case was dismissed, a St. Louis lawyer decided to investigate further.
It is more than just his music that has made Bruce Springsteen one of the world’s most influential rock stars. His progressive politics has made him the voice for many people around the world.