All Of It – Episode Summary: "The 2025 Public Song Project Recap!"
Release Date: July 28, 2025
Host: Alison Stewart
Produced by: Simon Close
Introduction
In this engaging episode of All Of It, hosted by Alison Stewart, listeners are taken through a vibrant recap of the 2025 Public Song Project—a creative initiative by WNYC that invites individuals to reinterpret works from the public domain through music. The episode not only announces the contest winners but also delves into the diverse inspirations and creative processes behind each submission.
Overview of the Public Song Project
Alison Stewart introduces the Public Song Project, explaining its core concept: participants are encouraged to submit songs based on material in the public domain. The initiative aims to blend classical literature and compositions with contemporary musical expression, fostering a unique cultural conversation.
Alison Stewart [00:09]:
"That's our project where we invite anyone to send in a song based on something in the public domain."
The project culminated in a radio special aired over the weekend, hosted by All Of It producer Simon Close, where the top submissions were unveiled.
Announcing the Winners
Simon Close provides an overview of the six winners, each bringing a distinct flavor to their adaptations:
- Annie Rossi – Presents a punk-inspired cover of Marianne Moore's 1909 poem, A Jellyfish.
- Devin Press (of Kangaroo) – Creates Moonlight, based on Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata, infused with elements of pachinero.
- Devin Yesberger and Mark Dover – Offer a classical rendition of Camille Saint-Saëns' The Swan through synth and clarinet.
- Dream Glow – A Boston-based experimental group that adapts Shakespeare's Sonnet 43.
- Raleigh Boo – Reimagines the legend of John Henry into a heartfelt song dedicated to his daughter.
- Britton Ashford – Reinvents Hush Little Baby with new lyrics and melody.
Simon Close [02:14]:
"Annie Rossi... was one of six winners this year."
Diverse Creative Processes
The episode highlights the varied inspirations behind the submissions. For instance, Raleigh Boo shares a personal connection to the story of John Henry, emphasizing themes of persistence and determination, which he aims to pass on to his daughter through his music.
Raleigh Boo [06:45]:
"It's the story of the railroad worker who goes up against a steam drill and then manages to drill further... it always taught me about persistence and being determined and never giving up."
This personal storytelling exemplifies how participants intertwine their lives with the public domain works they choose to adapt.
Special Features: Immersive Radio Special
Simon Close discusses the innovative format of the radio special, which weaves interviews with the artists seamlessly into their musical pieces, creating an immersive experience for listeners.
Simon Close [05:07]:
"We could sort of break apart the conversations I had and layer them on top of the songs and kind of experience the song and the creative process of making the song from the artists themselves."
An example provided is Britton Ashford's Hush Little Darlin', showcasing the stark contrast between different submission styles and the project's breadth.
Insights on the Public Domain and Modern Relevance
The conversation shifts to the significance of the public domain, particularly how it intersects with contemporary issues like artificial intelligence (AI). Simon Close elaborates on how AI-generated art is challenging traditional notions of copyright and the public domain.
Simon Close [09:43]:
"Artificial intelligence is like, totally flipping the way that we think about copyright in public domain... more new art is entering the public domain now than old art is."
This insight underscores the evolving landscape of cultural creation and intellectual property, making the Public Song Project a timely and relevant endeavor.
Upcoming Concert Details
Looking ahead, Simon Close announces a live concert featuring the winners and other notable submissions. Scheduled for the upcoming Saturday at the Brooklyn Public Library's Grand Army Plaza, the event promises a celebration of diverse musical interpretations and community engagement.
Simon Close [12:48]:
"It'll be a live concert on the steps of the Brooklyn Public Library in Grand Army Plaza... you can stop by the farmer's market while you're there too."
Spotlight on Dream Glow
Before concluding, the episode spotlights Dream Glow's adaptation of Shakespeare's Sonnet 43. Their experimental approach combines layered vocals and driving percussion to evoke the subconscious journey described in the sonnet.
Nathan from Dream Glow [13:34]:
"You can hear it in the layering of the vocals as well... just me and just Nathan."
Simon Close [14:11]:
"There's one section of the song that really jumps out to me... building to this explosion of light."
Conclusion and Upcoming Events
Alison Stewart wraps up the episode by reiterating the details of the upcoming concert and encouraging listeners to explore the full range of submissions online. Simon Close extends congratulations and invites the community to partake in the live celebration of artistic creativity.
Alison Stewart [15:16]:
"That is Public Song Project producer Simon Close. Congratulations, Simon."
Join the Celebration
Don't miss the opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of the Public Song Project's 2025 winners live. Head to the Brooklyn Public Library's Grand Army Plaza this Saturday at 1 PM for a free concert featuring performances from Annie Rossi, Devin Press, Dream Glow, and more. Explore the full collection of submissions and discover the creative stories behind each piece at wnyc.org/publicsongproject.
This summary captures the essence of the "The 2025 Public Song Project Recap!" episode of All Of It, highlighting the project's goals, the creativity of its participants, and the cultural significance of engaging with the public domain through music.