For most of my life, I have believed in the power of music as an integral part of our lives and an important element in the engagement of humanity
The latest example of this comes from Milwaukee’s own Peter Mulvey, a singer-songwriter who has a solid reputation in the indie/folk rock music scene, who recently wrote and recorded "Song for Michael Brown."
There are lots of times that artists try to capitalize on public events and seem like they are concerned about their fellow human beings. Lee Greenwood’s "God Bless the USA," which was a huge hit after Sept. 11, comes to mind.
Mulvey, though, has used quiet to express not a worldwide concern, but a very personal reaction to the events in Ferguson, Mo. As everyone knows, a white cop killed a black teenager and was exonerated by a grand jury. Demonstrations around the world have picked up steam, protesting the outcome of the grand jury.
Mulvey puts a very human face on the world. You can see him performing this song in his living room here. He is obviously moved and wrote this song in just a few minutes the morning after the verdict and the rioting.
This is the power of music.
With a history in Milwaukee stretching back decades, Dave tries to bring a unique perspective to his writing, whether it's sports, politics, theater or any other issue.
He's seen Milwaukee grow, suffer pangs of growth, strive for success and has been involved in many efforts to both shape and re-shape the city. He's a happy man, now that he's quit playing golf, and enjoys music, his children and grandchildren and the myriad of sports in this state. He loves great food and hates bullies and people who think they are smarter than everyone else.
This whole Internet thing continues to baffle him, but he's willing to play the game as long as OnMilwaukee.com keeps lending him a helping hand. He is constantly amazed that just a few dedicated people can provide so much news and information to a hungry public.
Despite some opinions to the contrary, Dave likes most stuff. But he is a skeptic who constantly wonders about the world around him. So many questions, so few answers.
