By Valerie Milano
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 10/27/25 – As the desert readies itself for another unforgettable weekend of music, laughter, and community spirit, one of the most powerful voices in American social change music takes center stage. Holly Near, legendary singer-songwriter, activist, and lifelong advocate for peace and equality, will be honored with the Legacy of Inspiration Award at the Sunset Music and Comedy Festival.
In an exclusive Zoom interview with The Hollywood Times, Senior Editor Valerie Milano sat down with Near at her home in San Francisco for a warm and candid conversation about art, activism, and resilience.
Since 1971, Holly Near has been a force of nature, using her art not only to entertain, but to challenge, uplift, and unify. “My music has always been about community,” she shared. “It’s about giving voice to people who often feel unheard and finding beauty even in resistance.”
From performing at the first gay and lesbian march on Washington to writing the anthemic “Singing for Our Lives” in the wake of Harvey Milk’s assassination, Near’s songs have become the soundtrack of movements for justice and equality.
Now, at 76, Near reflected on how women’s music continues to evolve. “We’ve gained so much knowledge and perspective,” she said. “Women’s music was never just a genre; it’s a way of articulating who we are and where we stand. It remains vital.”
The Legacy of Inspiration Award at the Sunset Music and Comedy Festival recognizes Near’s decades of courage, compassion, and creativity. “I’m humbled,” she said, “because it’s not just about me, it’s about all the people who’ve walked beside me, sung with me, and kept showing up.”
Despite enduring serious health challenges, including two cancers, a stroke, and a cracked pelvis, Near remains focused on both her art and her family. “Watching my grandchildren grow, play, and laugh… it’s the purest kind of renewal,” she smiled. “It reminds me why I keep going.”
Her upcoming book will chronicle her experiences as a feminist artist navigating decades of cultural change, a document of one woman’s journey through music, activism, and healing.
Near continues to believe in the power of collective creativity. “Artists have this extraordinary gift, to reflect what’s happening and to help others imagine something better,” she told Milano. “That’s where change begins.”
She also emphasized collaboration across differences. “We can’t afford silos,” she said. “The LGBTQ+ community, women, people of color, we all have shared struggles. Our art can build bridges if we let it.”
The Sunset Music and Comedy Festival will be held at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, celebrating artistry, diversity, and humor across multiple nights of performances. Holly Near will receive her award during “The Revival: Soul & Power” showcase.
Dates: November 7–9, 2025
Location: Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E Baristo Rd, Palm Springs, CA
Tickets: Available at www.sunsetmusic.org
Join the celebration of music, laughter, and legacy as Palm Springs honors one of the most inspiring voices of our time.
Editor’s Note:
This interview is part of The Hollywood Times’ ongoing coverage as an official media partner for the Sunset Music and Comedy Festival. Watch Valerie Milano’s full video interview with Holly Near on The Hollywood Times YouTube channel and visit our website for festival coverage, photos, and exclusive backstage moments.
Click below for our exclusive interview:
