W. Kamau Bell has made a career out of asking uncomfortable questions about race in America – both as a standup comedian and in his award-winning CNN series, United Shades of America. In this episode, Kamau shares the soundtrack to his life story – from bombing onstage as a young standup to inheriting “the family hardware store” of fighting racism. Here are his songs.

Wade In The Water - Jireh Gospel Choir
Rappers Delight - The Sugarhill Gang
Times Up - Living Colour
Hit The Road Jack - Ray Charles
Swing Low Street Chariot - 103rd Street Gospel Choir Featuring Pat Lewis
Head Over Heels - Tears For Fears
To Be Young Gifted and Black (2005 Remix) - Nina Simone

Listen to W. Kamau Bell's full playlist on Spotify. Find the transcript of this episode at ⁠lifeinsevensongs.com⁠. Thoughts? Guest suggestions? Email us at ⁠lifeinsevensongs@sfstandard.com⁠.

W. Kamau Bell on fighting white supremacy — but keeping it funny