Social Activism in Modern Music
Gita Anand ‘28
anandggr@lakeforest.edu
Staff Writer
Music has always connected people. From parties to long drives, from weddings to funerals, music enriches our lives in countless aspects. When we can’t find the words, we turn to art to express ourselves. Whether promoting peace with folk music in the 1960s, taking a stand with countercultural punk in the late ‘70s, or calling out systemic injustice through hip hop in the ‘90s, music has been relevant in social movements for decades. Right now, people all over the world are divided, and many artists are using music to express themselves. Below are six modern songs from six different genres about social justice issues. No matter what kind of music you like, there’s something here for everyone.
- Keep Ya Head Up by Tupac Shakur (Rap)
Released in 1993, this song is a tribute to women, their relationships and their choices. Tupac tells the ladies to keep their head up no matter what the world is throwing at them, encouraging them to leave dangerous relationships and letting them know that brighter days are ahead. It’s a pro-choice, comforting message of hope and a preach for social change.
- American Idiot by Green Day (Rock)
This song calls out American complicity, particularly regarding war. Released in 2004, this song critiques President George W. Bush and the war in Iraq. Upbeat and purposeful, Green Day comments on the media’s control over the population and points out that even if the majority believes in something wrong that doesn’t make it right.
- Nina Cried Power by Hozier (R&B)
From his 2019 album “Wasteland, Baby!,” this underrated song is a tribute to Black artists such as Nina Simone, Billy Idol and Marvin Gaye who sang fearlessly about human rights and racism over many decades. Hozier’s unique blend of soul, gospel and folk both mirrors the powerful messages spread by these Black trailblazers and brings them back to life in new ways. Above all, Hozier’s raw vocals encourage the audience never to give up on fighting for their rights.
- Compositor Del Año by Bad Bunny (Latin Trap)
This is a hard-hitting political song about racism, immigrants and women’ s rights. Released in 2020, Bad Bunny is transparent in his critique of the political climate, especially as so many social issues were exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. He is explicit and honest in his lyrics as he puts systemic injustice into perspective while refusing to apologize for it. Not only is his music catchy and popular, but it also sets a great example for upcoming social activists.
- Wolves by Jenson McRae (Indie)
This 2022 song by Jenson McRae tells a powerful story about sexual harassment. McRae’s simple beats, strong voice, and powerfully clear metaphors carry the emotional trauma of survivors everywhere, drawing on specific examples that many young women may relate to. The song also promotes female solidarity and demonstrates how being a “girl’s girl” is not just about friendship, but also about survival.
- Olive Branch by Elyanna (Arab Pop)
Released in 2024 as a critique of the Palestinian genocide, this song is rich with raw emotion. The melody speaks louder than the words, although Elyanna’s lyrics are heavy with grief for her family and the children in Palestine. The combination of harmonies portrays pain more soundly than any words could and this song is a powerful reminder of what our ignorance costs.
Songs about social issues can be powerful advocates for change, especially when shared by artists with huge social platforms. Just as folk music inspired peace in the ’60s and punk challenged authority in the ’70s, today’s music teaches younger audiences about injustice and resilience. These messages give listeners a foundation with which they can observe their surroundings, develop their own views, and take action for a better future.