Life in Seven Songs

W. Kamau Bell on fighting white supremacy — but keeping it funny

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W. Kamau Bell has made a career out of asking uncomfortable questions about race in America – both as a standup comedian and in his award-winning CNN series, United Shades of America. In this episode, Kamau shares the soundtrack to his life story – from bombing onstage as a young standup to inheriting “the family hardware store” of fighting racism. Here are his songs.

  1. Wade In The Water - Jireh Gospel Choir
  2. Rappers Delight - The Sugarhill Gang
  3. Times Up - Living Colour
  4. Hit The Road Jack - Ray Charles
  5. Swing Low Street Chariot - 103rd Street Gospel Choir Featuring Pat Lewis
  6. Head Over Heels - Tears For Fears
  7. To Be Young Gifted and Black (2005 Remix) - Nina Simone

    8. Listen to W. Kamau Bell's full playlist on Spotify. Find the transcript of this episode at ⁠lifeinsevensongs.com⁠. Thoughts? Guest suggestions? Email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠.

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    Life in Seven SongsBy The San Francisco Standard
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