Hello Chas, you know I totally admire you as a musician and a person, and I respect and understand your opinion about "Strange Fruit" The Billie Holiday version is culturally and historically significant and serves as reminder of something that is painful. I can understand why an artist straying away from Billies or Nina somber yet soulful interpretation could be offensive. Perhaps in the same way some people found Jimmy Hendrix's version of the "Star Spangled Banner" offensive.

But on the other hand, at least this song of such historical and cultural significance is not being forgotten or simply kept as a "museum piece". Unfortunately the song is as relevant as it was in the Jim Crow era. When contemporary artists cover this song , they bring it to a new generation that might not be inclined to listen to Billie or Nina.

I personally find Kayne West's version of this song inappropriate, I won't even post a link to it because I would not feel right about it, but I do give him credit for at least bringing the song to the young generation- maybe raising some awareness.

Just my thoughts Chas, you'll be my friend even if you disagree.
If you'd rather not discuss it, that cool too.

Respectfully,

Paul