Music: A Vessel for Social Justice

Introduction

In a study done by Karen Bergman at Mälardalens University in Sweden, after conducting research on how people perceive historical significance five categories were identified: remarkableness, remembrance, resonance, results (in terms of change), and the extent to which something reveals the aspects of the path (Karin). These five categories can be applied in a more nuanced way when considering the potential for music to alter history. These categories can essentially be condensed into what the overall impact of the music would be and how much change can come out of the music. These changes can range from being social, political, or cultural, depending on the themes and messages conveyed by the music. By evaluating and judging the impact of music through these lenses, one can better understand its role in shaping historical narratives and societal transformations.

In attempting to determine whether music has significantly impacted history, there are several clear instances that can act as case studies. Two of the most popular (and therefore most influential and impactful) examples include the music created in America during the 1960’s in response to the Cold War and the music popularized during the 2000’s in support of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) and racial equality movements (Zacharopoulou). These examples also suggest that significant music often emerges in response to political contests, thereby implying that music already has a platform to play a crucial role in shaping historical events. By applying the previously defined framework—the overall impact and change—to these case studies, one can systematically assess if music has actually significantly impacted and changed the course of history. Thus, the framework, combined with these historical case studies, helps allow a wider view of how music has shaped and altered the course of history.

The 1960’s

During the 1960’s, a decade marked by significant social and political upheaval, music became a very powerful tool for expression and protest. When the music scene exploded in response towards American involvement in the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights movements rising across America , songs such as “Blowin’ In The Wind” by Bob Dylan were immediately adopted as protest songs, showing how music can influence and reflect societal changes (Tierney). Released in 1962, Dylan’s song became a key anthem for both movements, being sung at the March On Washington and across America at Anti-Vietnam War protests. The thoughtful lyrics which spoke about peace, war, and freedom, all resonated deeply with those fighting for civil rights and opposing the Vietnam War. Bob Dylan’s song was able to continue its great impact in society, transcending its original context and being used in protests across history, as a pro-peace and anti-war message. 

The 1960’s also saw the emergence of other influential musicians and bands whose works also echoed the political sentiments of the era. Musicians like Joan, Baez, The Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix, all began to release music that was able to carry a message, much like Dylan’s, of peace, justice, and equality. Bands like The Beatles, who were so influential during that era, wrote songs like “Revolution,” becoming synonymous with anti-war and counterculture movements (Rengel). These songs were all able to capture the frustration and determination of a generation that was unwilling to accept the status quo, urging strongly for change.

The final culmination of these iconic songs and artists was The Woodstock Festival that happened in 1969, a festival that served as a gathering for unity and protest (Ward). Woodstock goes down in history as one of the greatest music festivals of all time, bringing together half a million people to celebrate music, and more importantly peace. Artists such as Joan Baez and Jimi Hendrix performed, singing their anti-war anthems, underscoring the deep connection between music and the social movements of that time. The 1960’s ultimately remains a period where music and social activism were inextricably linked. The music from that decade so clearly represents the social and political landscape of that era, reflecting the people’s desire for change. 

The 2000’s

More than four decades later, music continues to have a profound impact on social and political aspects of our world. Across the country, as the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement gained support and traction, music has played an integral role. Kendrick Lamar’s album “To Pimp a Butterfly” and specifically the track “Alright” became an anthem at protests. Released in 2015, the album was applauded for its exploration of racial inequality, systematic oppression, and black empowerment. Lamar’s music was quickly adopted as a soundtrack for the movement, further carrying the messages of BLM following the album’s release in 2015 (Carnes). “Alright” in particular, with its hopeful chorus “We gon’ be alright,” resonated with protesters and became a system of resilience amidst the fight for justice. Lamar’s impact was not just cultural, but also commercial. His album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 charts and sold 324,000 copies in its first week. The success of Lamar’s album further emphasized the relevance and appeal of his music, not only making major waves in society, but also in the professional world, showing the true reach of his music. The critical acclaim that his album received demonstrated the powerful intersection of art and activism, helping to bring awareness to the racial injustices happening across the country on a large platform.

Moreover, through Lamar’s seminal album, “To Pimp A Butterfly,” his music and voice served as a rallying cry for the BLM movement and beyond, symbolizing resilience. The song “Alright” has continued to play a role in activism, especially in 2020 following the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. During the global protests that erupted in response to these tragedies, Lamar’s music served as the backing track, providing a sense of hope and unity among the demonstrators (Limbong). Songs such as these, truly show the power that music has not only to reflect social change, but to actively participate in it and aid the narrative of solidarity and protest across time. From the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960’s to the modern-day BLM movement, music has continued to serve as a tool for expression, demonstrating the true fight for justice.

Other artists have also contributed to the growing musical landscape that addresses race and politics in the 21st century. Albums like Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” addresses themes of black womanhood and resilience, while songs like Childish Gambino’s “This is America” portrays racial violence and societal issues within the United States. These works, like Lamar’s music, highlight the broader trend where music is more often being used to reflect and aid social movements. Music provides a voice for marginalized people, fostering senses of community and inspiring action. The music being released by major artists is starting to become a vital part to the way social movements are spreading their messages, imprinting a permanent mark on history.

Conclusion

Looking at these two case studies, both from different time periods, it is clear how impactful music has been on history. While music may not seem to have the most direct impact on history, music works as a catalyst that inspires people to speak out. The political platform of music has stood for decades, transcending genres. These examples have shown that music does more than just reflect the times; it has actively shaped them. By providing voices for those who have been marginalized, challenging the “status quo” and uniting people of different backgrounds under a single cause, music has changed history. By using music as a tool to help amplify their message, protesters have brought awareness to the issues they were trying to change. Music, while not solving all problems, has been able to enlighten people on injustice, moving society towards positive change. Thus, considering the influence of music in such pivotal moments across history, it becomes evident that music has the ability to inspire collective action, making it a tool of social and political transformation. 

Works Cited

Bergman, Karin. “How younger students perceive and identify historical significance.” History Education Research Journal, vol. 17, no. 2, 2020, https://doi.org/10.14324/herj.17.2.03. 

Carnes, Aaron. “How Kendrick Lamar Became a Muse of the Black Lives Matter Movement.” Good Times, 9 Sept. 2020, www.goodtimes.sc/kendrick-lamar-black-lives-matter-movement/. 

Everett, D. “R&B Music Evolution.” RB Music Evolution, 11 Mar. 2020, sites.gsu.edu/deverett5/2020/01/29/hello-world/#:~:text=1960s%20there%20were%20huge%20changes,movement%2C%20feminism%2C%20and%20environmentalism. 

Gajanan, Mahita. “Childish Gambino’s ‘This Is America’: Breaking down Symbols.” Time, Time, 7 May 2018, time.com/5267890/childish-gambino-this-is-america-meaning/. 

Limbong, Andrew. “Both Party and Protest, ‘alright’ Is the Sound of Black Life’s Duality.” NPR, NPR, 26 Aug. 2019, www.npr.org/2019/08/26/753511135/kendrick-lamar-alright-american-anthem-party-protest. 

Rengel, Antonio. “The History of the Beatle’s Revolution.” Medium, Medium, 30 May 2021, ajrengel-75816.medium.com/the-history-of-the-beatles-revolution-dea876592636. 

Tierney, John  J. “Blowin’ in the Wind.” The Institute of World Politics, 30 June 2022, www.iwp.edu/articles/2022/06/30/blowin-in-the-wind/. 

Ward, Ed. “Woodstock.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 27 June 2024, www.britannica.com/event/Woodstock. 

Zacharopoulou, Despina. “The Power of Music: Cultural Influence throughout the Decades - Load Magazine.” LOAD Magazine - Fashion, Beauty and Culture for the Bold, 12 Sept. 2022, www.loadmag.eu/2022/09/12/the-power-of-music-cultural-influence-throughout-the-decades/.