Free Will (Gil Scott-Heron album)

Free Will is the second studio album by American soul and jazz poet Gil Scott-Heron, released in 1972 on Flying Dutchman Records. The album continues Scott-Heron's exploration of socially conscious themes, blending spoken word poetry with jazz and soul musical arrangements.

Content and Themes:

Free Will features a mix of original compositions and covers that address issues of poverty, racial injustice, drug addiction, and political disillusionment. Scott-Heron's lyrical delivery is direct and unflinching, offering both critique and a sense of hope. The album is notable for its use of improvisation and its incorporation of elements from various musical genres.

Notable Tracks:

• "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised": A spoken-word piece that critiques the superficiality of mainstream media and popular culture. Though a studio version appeared on the previous album, Pieces of a Man, Free Will features an alternate live recording of this iconic track.
• "Save the Children": A powerful call for social responsibility and a plea to protect vulnerable youth from the destructive forces of society.
• "I Think I'll Call It Morning": A reflective and melancholic song about dealing with the challenges of life and finding moments of peace.
• "Did You Hear What They Said?": A commentary on rumor and gossip within a community.
• "When You Are Who You Are": An affirmation of self-acceptance and resilience in the face of adversity.

Musical Style:

The album showcases Scott-Heron's distinctive blend of spoken word poetry and music. The arrangements are primarily jazz-influenced, with elements of soul, funk, and blues. The instrumentation includes piano, bass, drums, saxophone, and other instruments that create a dynamic and engaging musical backdrop for Scott-Heron's lyrics.

Reception and Legacy:

Free Will received critical acclaim upon its release and is considered one of Scott-Heron's most important and influential albums. It solidified his reputation as a socially conscious artist and helped to pioneer the fusion of poetry and music that would later become known as hip hop. The album's themes and messages continue to resonate with audiences today.