Disabled artists like Neil Young and Joni Mitchell have had a significant impact on music.
Music has been a medium of expression for centuries, allowing artists to share their stories, emotions, and innovations with the world. However, for disabled musicians, navigating the music industry has posed significant challenges and barriers. The term “cripping” is one that disabled individuals have embraced to redefine their identities and experiences, particularly in the field of arts and culture. Eliza Chandler, an associate professor at TMU’s School of Disability Studies, explains that disability arts seek to challenge societal norms and create a new narrative that is inclusive and empowering for disabled individuals.
In a groundbreaking collaboration between CBC Music, CBC Creator Network, and AccessCBC, composer, performer, and comedian James Hamilton sheds light on the ways in which disabled musicians have revolutionized the music industry through their unique perspectives and talents. By simply existing and pursuing their artistic endeavors, disabled musicians have the power to transform the music world as we know it. Whether through innovative concert performances, groundbreaking musical content, or the use of new technologies, these artists are reshaping our understanding of what music can be.
One such example is the iconic musicians Joni Mitchell and Neil Young, both of whom were impacted by the polio epidemic in 1950s Canada. Mitchell, who faced mobility challenges in her hands, adapted her guitar tuning to accommodate her needs, ultimately creating her distinctive “jazzy” guitar sound. Similarly, Neil Young recorded his album “Harvest” while wearing a back brace following an accident on his ranch. This physical limitation influenced his musical style, resulting in a more mellow and minimalistic approach to his music.
In more recent years, artists like ASL rapper Sean Forbes have been at the forefront of popularizing sign-rapping, a unique blend of American Sign Language and rap music. By incorporating sign language into his performances, Forbes is making music more accessible to diverse audiences and challenging traditional notions of what constitutes a musical performance. Likewise, Toronto-based composer Stephanie Orlando is creating music with neurodivergent listeners in mind, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage with and enjoy music on their own terms.
Through their pioneering work, disabled musicians are not only changing the landscape of the music industry but also paving the way for greater inclusivity and diversity in artistic expression. By embracing their disabilities as sources of creativity and inspiration, these artists are pushing boundaries, challenging stereotypes, and creating a more equitable and accessible world for all music lovers. Tune in to the video above for a closer look at the ways in which disabled musicians are transforming the music scene and “cripping” music in the most extraordinary ways.