1977 SIGNED VINTAGE VINYL Best of Dick Gregory COMEDIC MAESTRO & SOCIAL ACTIVIST
1977 Rare SIGNED VINTAGE VINYL Best of Dick Gregory COMEDIC MAESTRO & SOCIAL ACTIVIST
6 Sides, 3 Records (although there happens to be a 2nd copy of Side A / B, it’s included so you’ll have a backup:) Signed by the legendary Dick Gregory!
Side A:
1. Young Moral Dedications 6:35
2. Moral Gap 15:12
3. Assassinations 1:00
Side B:
1. Property Rights - Human Rights 11:35
2. Learning To Live 8:05
3. White Racist Institutions 8:25
Side C:
1. Black Rioters 7:07
2. Atmosphere Of Trust 2:25
3. Presidential Campaign 1:35
4. White Brother 2:05
5. Crime - Washington, D.C. 2:43
6. Spiro Agnew 1:20
7. Martians 7:15
Side D:
1. President Gregory On Smoking, Rest Programs 6:10
2. Checking Out Whites And Riots 5:28
3. Dope Pushers 13:38
Side E:
1. Tricks 23:28
Side F:
1. Like There Is No Agnew 4:00
2. Feeding The Poor And Hungry Volunteer Army 3:48
3. Black Culture In The Ghettos - Civil Rights 11:58
"The Best of Dick Gregory" is a remarkable three-record collection signed by the legendary comedian and civil rights activist, Dick Gregory. This anthology encapsulates the brilliance and captivating wit of Gregory, showcasing his unique ability to blend humor with astute political commentary. With a track list spanning six sides, this collection provides an immersive journey through Gregory's insightful perspectives on race, morality, social justice, and American society at large.
Side A opens with "Young Moral Dedications," a thought-provoking piece in which Gregory sets the tone for his performance. His razor-sharp observations on the "Moral Gap" between societal ideals and reality follow suit, delving deep into the inherent contradictions prevalent in American culture. "Assassinations" briefly touches upon the profound impact of tragic historical events on the nation's psyche.
On Side B, "Property Rights - Human Rights" becomes a centerpiece, as Gregory dissects the interconnectedness of these two concepts and confronts systemic inequities head-on. "Learning to Live" and "White Racist Institutions" further expose the structural racism within American society, challenging listeners to question prevailing norms and biases.
Side C features Gregory's provocative take on various subjects. "Black Rioters" sheds light on the complex dynamics surrounding civil unrest, while "Atmosphere of Trust" explores the critical role of trust in fostering positive change. "Presidential Campaign" and "White Brother" exhibit Gregory's incisive political analysis, addressing racial dynamics in the context of American leadership. The poignant commentary continues with "Crime - Washington, D.C.," "Spiro Agnew," and the whimsical "Martians," which masterfully blends satire and social critique.
Side D highlights Gregory's versatility as he transitions into topics such as smoking, rest programs, and race relations. "Checking Out Whites and Riots" explores the tense climate of the time, offering a nuanced perspective. The lengthy piece "Dope Pushers" delves deep into the devastating impact of drug addiction, revealing Gregory's commitment to addressing social issues with unflinching honesty.
Side E presents the captivating "Tricks," a lengthy performance that showcases Gregory's storytelling prowess and comedic timing. As Gregory weaves anecdotes and observations, he shines a light on the human condition and exposes the follies of society.
Finally, Side F offers insightful social commentary. "Like There Is No Agnew" offers a glimpse into Gregory's perspective on political figures, while "Feeding the Poor and Hungry Volunteer Army" emphasizes the importance of community engagement in addressing poverty. The collection culminates with "Black Culture in the Ghettos - Civil Rights," where Gregory delves into the transformative power of culture and its role in the fight for civil rights.
"The Best of Dick Gregory" serves as a testament to the genius of this influential comedian and social activist. Gregory's ability to entertain, provoke thought, and challenge societal norms makes this collection a timeless treasure for those seeking a blend of laughter and profound social insight. With his words echoing through the tracks, Dick Gregory continues to inspire and illuminate, leaving an indelible mark on comedy and activism alike.
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ABOUT DICK GREGORY:
Dick Gregory, born Richard Claxton Gregory on October 12, 1932, in St. Louis, Missouri, was an iconic comedian, social activist, and civil rights advocate. His extraordinary life was marked by a relentless pursuit of justice, a brilliant comedic career, and an unwavering commitment to promoting equality and challenging societal norms.
In the late 1950s, Gregory gained recognition for his stand-up comedy performances that combined humor with incisive social commentary. His sharp wit and fearless critique of racial injustice quickly set him apart in the comedy scene. His career received a significant boost when he caught the attention of Playboy magazine founder Hugh Hefner, who recognized Gregory's talent and gave him a breakthrough opportunity to perform at the Playboy Club in Chicago. This exposure led to national recognition and catapulted Gregory into the mainstream.
Gregory's comedic brilliance was often intertwined with his fervent activism. During the turbulent 1960s, he became a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, using his platform to challenge racial discrimination and advocate for social change. He marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and participated in various demonstrations, blending his humor with poignant political insights to captivate audiences and convey his message effectively.
In 1968, Gregory made history by running for President of the United States as a write-in candidate for the Freedom and Peace Party. Though he was not successful, his candidacy aimed to highlight the pressing issues facing the nation and amplify the voices of marginalized communities. This bold move cemented Gregory's reputation as a trailblazer, willing to push boundaries in the pursuit of a fair and just society.
Continuing his political aspirations, Gregory ran for mayor of Chicago in 1967 as an independent candidate. His campaign aimed to address systemic racism, poverty, and corruption within the city. Although he did not win, his run brought attention to the need for social reform and inspired others to engage in local politics.
Throughout his life, Gregory remained committed to various causes, including fighting against hunger, promoting health and wellness, and advocating for peace. He embarked on multiple hunger strikes to draw attention to world hunger and called for governments to take decisive action. Gregory's commitment to healthy living led him to become a vegetarian and later a vegan, advocating for plant-based diets and holistic approaches to well-being.
In addition to his activism, Gregory was an accomplished author, writing several books that explored his experiences and perspectives on social issues. His works, including "Nigger: An Autobiography" and "Callus on My Soul," provided a candid glimpse into his life, reflecting the challenges he faced as an African American in a deeply divided society.
Dick Gregory's impact extended far beyond the realm of comedy and activism. He used humor as a powerful tool to expose societal inequalities, challenge the status quo, and provoke thought. His ability to seamlessly blend entertainment with social commentary earned him the admiration of countless individuals, both within and outside the African American community.
Until his passing on August 19, 2017, Gregory continued to inspire generations with his infectious laughter, sharp intellect, and tireless dedication to creating a more just and inclusive world. His legacy serves as a reminder of the transformative power of comedy and activism, urging us to challenge injustice and strive for equality.
