Joan Baez Wants Pop Stars to Speak Up About Politics: 'Just Take That Little Step'

Joan Baez argues that modern pop musicians should use their platforms to address political and social issues. She expressed this on the Wiser Than Me podcast with Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who noted a generation of talented artists who have remained mostly silent about alleged assaults on democracy. Baez admitted she understands some hesitancy, while highlighting Brandi Carlile and Maggie Rogers as examples of vocal activism. She urged younger artists to take “that little step” toward public engagement.