Baez said she understands why younger artists may hesitate to speak out, noting that some write amazing music and some are willing to speak. She named Brandi Carlile and Maggie Rogers as exceptions, praising Rogers for being visible at a rally against ICE. Baez expressed confusion that many talented young women songwriters do not take a “little step” to address current abuses and political events. She suggested that many of them are already wealthy, implying they have the means to speak. She also emphasized a long history of activism, including support for LGBTQ+ rights, opposition to the Vietnam War, and work on death penalty reform.
"“I understand where they're coming from,” Baez said. “The young people right now, some are writing amazing stuff. A few are willing to speak out.”"
"Baez then highlighted two artists she sees as exceptions: Brandi Carlile and her “pal” Maggie Rogers. (Baez specifically touted Rogers for being “front and center on the stage at a rally against ICE” back in April. Baez and Rogers previously performed together at an AOC/Bernie Sanders rally from April 2025.)"
"“I sort of cock my head at these stadiums filled with brilliant young women songwriters, and why can't they just take that little step,” Baez said. “Because they're already richer than God, you know, most of them. So, that little step.”"
"Over the last 60-plus years, Baez has put her money where her mouth is and then some. There's a strong case to be made that '60s folk music was so interested in activism because of Baez's overt influence. And over the years, she's championed a suite of causes, from LGTBQ+ rights and the Vietnam War to even death penalty reform."
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