From vinyl records to streaming albums on Spotify and Apple Music, the way we listen to and access the art of music has definitely changed and evolved throughout the years, but the importance of it has remained the same as its impact is immortal. Another aspect that has not vanished from music is that it has been used by many to protest and speak up for those who feel as if their voice has not been heard and acknowledged. Since I often listen to songs that display an immense amount of activism, I wanted to share some of them in this article so that each track will hopefully inspire you to get even more involved in the causes and issues you feel passionate about and driven by.
The Revolution Will Not Be Televised by Gil Scott-Heron:
This controversial track was originally just written as a poem that eventually transitioned into a song by the American soul and jazz poet Gil Scott-Heron. The title resonated with the individuals who identified with the 1960s Black Power movements, which explains why it was a popular slogan among them. Although the song makes references to key figures in the mid-20th century such as Richard Nixon, Jackie Onassis and Johnny Cash, its influence still remains prominent as it highlights the fact that the government and mainstream media will not always be the ones to showcase and support the progression that we need to make as a society. Nonetheless, it is vital to use our own minds and hearts to bring attention to the faults in our world and not rely on anybody else to do so.
“Masters of War” by Bob Dylan:
One of the most important and prolific musical artists to have existed, Bob Dylan’s extensive body of work has shined light on to a multitude of subjects such as recreational drugs, love, loneliness and overall reflections on the human condition. “Masters of War” was released on his album The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan in 1963. Although he has many songs that touch upon politics, this one protested the Cold War arms build-up in the early 1960s’. A harsh and gruelling take on the hostilities of war, Dylan illustrates his hatred and disgust with violence in the lyrics that will send chills as you listen to each word.
“Everyday People” by Sly & The Family Stone:
A song that promotes unity, solidarity and peace among humanity, the message within the track released in 1968 remains just as crucial to learn as it was back then. As Sly & The Family Stone was actually the first integrated band of rock music, they definitely did not only speak about the changes that needed to be pushed forward but took action and proved that despite our race, gender identity, sexual orientation and/or religion, we must help one another find comfort and safety in a world filled with corruption and discrimination.
“Mississippi Goddam” by Nina Simone:
An artist who departed from the opportunity to have mainstream success in order to focus more on political issues and the Civil Rights Movement, Nina Simone is known for her unapologetic approach to writing and singing about controversial topics. “Mississippi Goddam” indicated a new chapter in Simone’s career as the song captures her response to the murder of Medgar Evers and the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing, in which the Ku Klux Klan planted 15 sticks of dynamite that lead to the death of four, beautiful black children. As the song depicts her wish for equality and justice, the lyrics of “Mississippi Goddam” remain important as we still are on a mission to end institutionalized racism and hate groups.
Jimi Hendrix’s rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner” at Woodstock
If you think it is strange that I am speaking about a guitar solo as something that includes activism, then continue reading. This distorted, twisted version of the National Anthem confused the audience that gathered to watch Jimi Hendrix at the Woodstock music festival in 1969. Many were outraged by his cover, thinking it was disrespectful to the United States of America. However, it was more so a commentary on the state of Americans, specifically the youth, who were heavily against the rise of the Vietnam War. Hendrix manipulated the instrument to represent the feelings of distaste and contempt that many contained due to the unsettling violence occurring overseas.
