Performance artist and activist Reverend Billy joins Jeannie Hopper in the "church of the Clocktower" to discuss the magic of mic checks, the Earthaluja movement, and the Occupy community, as well as share some of the uplifting hymns sung in solidarity by the Stop Shopping Gospel Choir.
The self-proclaimed "emotionally unstable televangelist" has been preaching in the streets of New York City for 20 years, boisterously condemning consumerism and defending all acts of urban activism. In 1999, Reverend Billy's voice was joined by others when the Stop Shopping Gospel Choir was born. The all-ages choir has grown significantly since then and includes 35 singers and a 5-piece band from a diverse array of economic, ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds. The spirited preacher has inspired these artists and many others to fight consumer hypnosis through community efforts and song, and strives to take back and revitalize all public spaces, whether they are city streets, parks, or the hallowed halls of bank lobbies.
