This session will review the history of antisemitism in pop and rock music, with particular emphasis on the subtle and not so subtle use of antisemitic lyrics and imagery. We will investigate the origins and rise of racist punk music and Nazi rock and the bizarre involvement of artists including Eric Clapton, David Bowie, the Sex Pistols and Michael Jackson. In addition, we will consider the extent to which Jewish songwriters and performers, from Al Jolson to Sasha Baron Cohen, have wittingly or unwittingly contributed to this form of antisemitism.
