Description

Ruth Pelham – Look To The People – Vinyl Record

Look to the People by Ruth Pelham is a folk album released in 1986 that embodies her commitment to community, peace, and social justice. As a singer-songwriter and community musician, Pelham uses her music to inspire listeners to connect with each other and engage in acts of kindness.

Singer, guitarist, and songwriter Ruth Pelham has performed at festivals and clubs, as well as libraries and schools. Her warm, yet humorous, music can stir up joyful memories for adults, and teach children good messages to remember while they have a great time. In 1986, Gentle Wind released Pelham’s debut album, Look to the People, filled with wonderful tracks like ‘Lessons of Life,’ ‘Look to the People,’ and ‘In These Golden Days.’ The uplifting tunes are accomplished through many instruments, including the accordion, violin, saxophone, penny whistle, clarinet, cello, autoharp, banjo, and others. John Curtis, Maggie Rizzi, Janet Hood, Martha Siegel, Billy Novick, Beth Cohen, and Alan Bern lend their talents to the work. The album Under One Sky was released in 1998. Its tracks, rated for ages four and up, include ‘Guitar Box Band’ and ‘If I Could Be Anything.

The album includes songs such as ‘Each of Us Is Kind,’ ‘I Am a Woman,’ and ‘The Grandma Song,’ which celebrate personal and societal values, and promote unity and empowerment. With warm, acoustic instrumentation—featuring clarinet, cello, and guitar—the music has a gentle yet profound tone, reflecting Pelham’s philosophy that music can be a powerful tool for positive change and bringing communities together.

Look to the People remains influential in folk and community music circles, where Pelham’s songs are often sung in classrooms, community gatherings, and peace events, embodying a spirit of inclusivity and compassion.

Flying Fish Records 1986

Track Listing
Turning Of The World
The Activity Room
Each of Us kind
I Cried
Lessons Of Life
In These Golden Days
Look To The People
I Am A Woman
The Grandma Song
Wings Of Time
Celebrate