Joan Baez shared powerful insights about the state of American politics during her appearance on the season premiere of Everybody's Live With John Mulaney on March 12, 2025. The folk music legend took the opportunity to address what she perceives as the decline of democracy, highlighting the impact of wealthy individuals on governance.
Baez began her segment by discussing Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., whom she referred to as "a funny person." With this light-hearted introduction, she quickly shifted to what she described as the urgent need to address America's political climate. "You said I could say anything I want out here," Baez told Mulaney, setting the stage for her unfiltered assessment of current events.
She expressed serious concerns about the future, stating, "Our democracy is going up in flames…we're being run by a bunch of really incompetent billionaires." Although she did not mention anyone by name, her remarks were widely interpreted as veiled criticisms aimed at prominent figures such as President Donald Trump and Tesla founder Elon Musk. Baez's comment about billionaires controlling the country echoes sentiments prevalent among many activists and commentators who believe corporate interests are eroding democratic principles.
Baez, well known for her activism throughout her career, including during the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement, reminded her audience of her roots. "Nonviolent action was what I was born for. I knew I belonged there," she reflected, quoting her line from the 2023 documentary Joan Baez: I Am a Noise. Her history of advocacy establishes her credibility when she critiques the present-day political structure.
During the show, she also recounted personal experiences, including her brief time as a Tesla owner. "I hated this thing," Baez recalled, humorously describing how she drove the car off the lot only to crash it 45 minutes later. "I was thinking, 'That's a sign.'" This anecdote not only provided levity but also subtly underscored her skepticism about the technology industry and the characters leading it.
Baez’s appearance on Mulaney’s show attracted attention not just for her political commentary but also for her continuing relevance to social justice issues. Her music has always encapsulated activism, making her one of the most notable figures of the 1960s protest movements. Her song, "Diamonds and Rust," echoed sentiments of the times, and her reputation for standing up against injustice remains intact.
With the Academy Awards recently recognizing actors portraying iconic figures from her life and musical era, such as Monica Barbaro playing Baez and Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan, one can see how her legacy intersects with contemporary interpretations of history. Both actors earned nominations for their performances, contributing to the growing appreciation for folk music's role during the tumultuous times of the 1960s.
Baez's comments on the show did not just reflect her thoughts; they echoed the frustrations of many Americans who feel disillusioned by leadership. Her unique blend of personal storytelling and political critique offered not only reflection but also motivation for continued activism and engagement with current issues.
Her music continues to inspire younger generations who seek to use their voices against injustice—whether it's for environmental causes, LGBTQ+ rights, or combating systemic inequality. Joan Baez embodies the spirit of resilience and advocacy, and her recent remarks remind us of the importance of holding leaders accountable.
Through her candid critique and humorous storytelling, Baez effectively emphasized the necessity of recognizing and advocating for the democratic ideals she has championed for decades. Even as she shares personal tales, her overarching message remains: the need for conscious action and awareness surrounding political leadership and its impacts on society.
Joan Baez's appearance may have been part of the entertainment world, but her words resonate with much more significant meaning, urging the audience to remain vigilant and proactive as they navigate the current political climate. For those listening, it was clear: Baez is not just a relic of the past; she remains deeply engaged and relevant to today's social justice conversations.
Her passionate plea serves as both an acknowledgment of where we’ve been and where we must yet go. With figures like Baez continuing to speak truth to power, the call for action remains potent and unwavering, echoing throughout the corridors of history and the fabric of modern activism.