
GIL SCOTT-HERON, 1949-2011
by Kenan Malik
One of the most memorable gigs that I have ever been to was Gil Scott-Heron at the Brixton Academy. Drinks, drugs and prison had ravaged both body and voice. But he could mesmerize like few others. He possessed a sharp, sardonic wit, an emotional palette of exceptional richness, and an ability to allow your spirit to take flight. He was undefinable, unique, inspirational. And nothing, perhaps, better expresses those qualities, and his attitude to life and to politics, than the […]
Categories: Culture & Books • Tags: gil scott-heron, jazz, music, poetry