Punk Rock Balladeer Billy Bragg On His Career, Free Speech, The Power Of Music

Billy Bragg is also an avid writer, in addition to his accomplished and influential music career.

Jonathan Short/Invision/AP

Seminal punk rock balladeer Billy Bragg has made a career out of always being honest and passionate with his songwriting. Citing influences from Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie to punk bands like The Clash, Bragg’s music is the perfect fusion of folk and punk.

billy bragg poster
Billy Bragg talked about his upcoming virtual author event at Atlanta’s A Cappella Books on May 6. (Billy Bragg)

His songs span a wide array of different subjects. But a theme that tends to link them is that of unity — and acceptance.

Above all, Bragg expresses the need for accountability to be had when it comes to writing music. Music, to him, helps us bridge social gaps and view life through the lens of others who may be different than ourselves.