The Appalachian Mountains inspire wonder, reverence and awe. Many of the nation's magnificent rivers flow from them, providing millions of Americans with clean drinking water. Their majestic vistas nourish our spirits and connect us with nature. It's no wonder that these crown jewels have inspired musicians for generations, whether they're playing bluegrass, country or rock-and-roll.
Today, the Appalachians are being ravaged by the most destructive form of coal mining ever devised. Companies are blowing entire mountaintops to smithereens to get at the thin seams of coal below. Already 500 peaks have been leveled, wide swaths of forests have been clearcut, miles of streams have been destroyed or polluted, and countless communities have been harmed by the hunger for fossil fuel.
With the future of America's oldest mountains at stake, singers and musicians are coming together to say "enough is enough." They are joining together to fight for these cherished mountains, where American music was born and which so many songs celebrate.
Check out this great new video from Big Kenny. Wake Up was inspired by his recent trip to Appalachia.
More Info from NRDC
» Saving the Cumberland Plateau
» No More Mountaintop Removal
» Photos By J Henry Fair
» Contact Us
Webpage produced in collaboration with the Natural Resources Defense Council, www.nrdc.org
Mountaintop Removal Photo Credit: ©2009 J Henry Fair
We must join together with one voice to send the message that we will not sit idly by while
our mountains and our inspiration are being blown apart. Together, our music can save mountains.
