September 20, 1957 - Ballroom of the Morrison Hotel in Chicago
On September 20, 1957, the ballroom of the prestigious Morrison Hotel in Chicago became the special venue for an extraordinary musical and socio-political event. Mahalia Jackson gave a live concert alongside her pianist Mildred Falls, hosted by her longtime friend, radio host, and oral historian Studs Terkel. This special gathering, broadcast live on WFMT radio, is a valuable testament to Jackson's artistic power and her unwavering commitment to the civil rights movement.
A duet of voices: music and hope
During the event, Jackson and Terkel became a "classic duet of two voices acknowledging the historic moment." The concert was much more than just a musical event. Between Jackson's rousing performances of gospel classics, they spoke about the profound issues of their time. Jackson openly shared her experiences with the everyday racism she faced in America. She reflected on the stark contradiction of being revered as a celebrated artist on stage, only to experience insults and discrimination in her everyday life.
During these conversations, Terkel encouraged Jackson in her commitment to the civil rights movement. He recognized not only her musical brilliance, but also her role as one of the most influential voices in the fight for equality. Mahalia's music, accompanied by her longtime pianist Mildred Falls, was a source of hope and defiance that perfectly reflected the movement's message.
The Morrison Hotel and the spirit of the times
The Morrison Hotel, once Chicago's tallest hotel and a symbol of progress and elegance, provided the perfect setting for this historic event. Ironically, the hotel where Jackson and Terkel discussed the shortcomings of American society in its ballroom was demolished a few years later to make way for a new skyscraper.
The year 1957 marked a decisive turning point in the civil rights movement. With the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1957 and the founding of the “Southern Christian Leadership Conference“ (SCLC) by Martin Luther King Jr., the country was undergoing change. The conversation between Jackson and Terkel reflected the central debates of the era. It showed how art and activism went hand in hand to draw attention to injustices and spread hope for a better future.
The live broadcast from the Morrison Hotel remains a powerful document of history and the collaboration between two extraordinary personalities. It reminds us of the power of music and the spoken word to bring about social change.
Listen to this special concert on YouTube