Challenging Cultural Appropriation: A White Person Singing 'Ol Man River'

By Neil Grossbard, Jew and Vocalist

When I sing Old Man River, I do it with sincerity. I connect with the Black experience that the song conveys. I perform it A cappella and in open mics, and I have received praise even from performers who have listened to it performed by the legendary Bill Robeson. My advocacy for this song has resulted in over 17 YouTube vocal renditions of it, the latest even with a live pianist.

Is Race a Factor in Cultural Appropriation?

In the context of the musical Show Boat, Old Man River is a song sung by a true Bass, an older black man from the Southern States of America. Changing this character to a woman, a boy soprano, or altering the accent to a Parisian style would fundamentally change the cultural context. In fact, I would argue that casting a white male in the role would re-contextualize the song even more. The real question is whether itrsquo;s deemed inappropriate for a white person to sing a Black song. Letrsquo;s consider this:

If you remove the origin and the cultural context, the song becomes a solo performance that any musician can interpret based on their personal experience and understanding. The melody, the emotion, and the lyrics have universal appeal, regardless of the performer's race or cultural background. This is not about appropriating culture in a derogatory manner, but rather about sharing a timeless piece of artistry.

The Pejorative Nature of Cultural Appropriation

Cultural appropriation is often criticized as using elements of another culture in a way that is disrespectful. However, is it truly disrespectful to sing a song that has been part of a cultural heritage and has gained universal recognition? When I was in elementary school, one of my favorite choir songs was Ol Man River. The idea that singing a song disrespects its cultural roots is perplexing. Sing it proud and with respect! The naysayers have no grounds to stand on, much less to argue about appropriating culture.

Reflecting on the Original Context

The song Old Man River was composed by an almost exclusively Jewish collaborative team, incorporating additional lyrics by the English writer, P.G. Wodehouse. This composition has a historical and cultural backdrop that went beyond a single cultural identity. The song as performed by a professional actor became a symbol of the struggle, resilience, and wisdom found in the African American experience during the 19th and 20th centuries. This doesn't mean that a white person can't or shouldn't sing it; rather, it means that the respect and understanding of the song's original context is crucial.

At the end of the day, the accessibility and universality of art transcend cultural boundaries. By performing and cherishing songs from various cultural backgrounds, we not only honor the traditions from which they sprang, but we also invite a broader community to appreciate and embrace our shared humanity. So, letrsquo;s sing it loud, sing it proud, and keep the dialogue open about cultural exchange and appreciation.

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