Jacqueline Steiner
American folk singer, songwriter, and social activist (1924–2019)
Jacqueline Steiner was a prominent figure in American folk music, utilizing her talents as a singer, songwriter, and social activist to make a lasting impact. Born in 1924, Steiner's career was marked by her commitment to using music as a platform for social commentary and change. Her most notable contribution to the folk music scene was the creation of the song "M.T.A.", a humorous tale of a man's misadventure on the Boston subway.
Steiner co-wrote "M.T.A." in 1949 with Bess Lomax Hawes, as part of a Boston political campaign. The song's popularity endured, and it was later adapted by the renowned folk group The Kingston Trio, who released their version in 1959. This rendition became one of the group's most recognizable hits, introducing Steiner's work to a wider audience. Throughout her life, Steiner remained dedicated to her craft and social activism, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of folk music until her passing in 2019.