Music, of course, is entertainment, but it can also be a catalyst for action. 

A “teach-in” is an informal educational forum on a subject of social significance, typically held on a college campus. In 1970, for instance, students and faculty participated in a series of teach-ins on the growing environmental crisis. These gatherings led directly to the creation of the annual Earth Day celebration. 

By contrast, a “teach-out” is more public-facing. We’ve loosely based the Which Side? series on the precedent of the “Flying University,” an underground phenomenon that began in the late 1800s in Warsaw. At a time when the Polish people were attempting to resist German and Russian encroachment, educators began offering secret courses in private homes taught by dissident educators. Activists living under Communist rule revived the idea in the late 1970s. 

Which Side?: A Protest Music Teach-Out is based on the book “Which Side Are You On? 20th Century American History in 100 Protest Songs” by Boston-based author, journalist, and educator James Sullivan. Initiated by Joyce Linehan, a longtime organizer in Boston’s arts community and former chief of policy for Mayor Marty Walsh, the series celebrates the importance of protest music to activism and offers a deeper opportunity for connection among participants and audience members.

“Which Side?: Nashville” is Nashville’s take on the teach-out, and features musicians, activists, and community leaders who reflect Nashville’s diversity and brilliance. Jamie Rubin, Family Wash founder and current co-owner of Eastside Bowl, is originally from Boston and learned about ‘Which Side?’ through his network of friends and bandmates. One night while catching up with friend Greg O’Loughlin, they were discussing Greg’s work in education, activism, and organizing. Jamie was struck by the serendipity of the moment and suggested they connect with James Sullivan to explore the possibility of starting “Which Side?: Nashville” by hosting a show and starting the conversations, connections, and community-building needed to meet this moment.

Based on the timeless protest song “Which Side Are You On” by Florence Reece, the matriarch of a coal-mining family in Harlan County, Kentucky, the song challenged strike-breakers to listen to their conscience. We’re simply asking participants to think about whether they want to be on the side of progress or regression.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Whichside.Nashville

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whichside.nashville

This event is All Ages

Please contact [email protected] for any ADA accommodations.