Soul Music

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Soul Music: Series 29: We Are Family

We Are Family

Series 29

BBC Radio 4 - Soul Music, Series 29, We Are Family

The smash disco hit about unity and family by Sister Sledge.

Stories from the people on why Sister Sledge's disco hit ‘We Are Family’ is more than just a feelgood dance record. From 2019.

We Are Family written by Nile Rodgers and performed by the Sledge Sisters Kathy, Kim, Debbie and Joni was released in 1978 at the height of disco's popularity. 

Kim Sledge says it has become the anthem for diverse groups of people around the world who come together on the dance floor to form a family.  

Professor Tim Lawrence says disco at its best was an inclusive music movement that welcomed people of all races and genders, unlike rock music which in the early 1970s appealed to a predominantly white male audience.  

We Are Family epitomised dance music's appeal to traditionally marginalised groups in the USA - African Americans, Latinos, women and gay men.

Listen to the stories of some of the people for whom the song is linked with some of the most significant experiences of their lives.

Produced by Maggie Ayre.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2019.

Soul Music: Series 29

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Series about pieces of music with a powerful emotional impact.

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