Dissecting the Complex Interplay Between Music and Activism

Music has always been a powerful medium for people to express their thoughts and emotions, particularly love, anger, rage, and sadness. Music is a powerful tool that vividly embodies emotions and bridges fragmented connections between people’s hearts. Furthermore, this timeless treasure has strongly influenced social activist movements, buttressing the ideals of numerous artists who fought to rectify injustices in their lives. Music Activism is a form of activism that creates strong connects and evokes strong bonds.

Freddie Mercury and Elton John (Reddit)

The Intertwined History of Music and Activism

The relationship between music and activism was birthed during ancient times, in the 18th and 19th centuries, when enslaved people in America used music to express hope, resistance and other coded messages, with songs such as “Follow the Drinking Gourd,” which guided people to freedom via the underground railroad. During these times, music was a central part of rituals and ceremonies, serving as a powerful tool to convey their hardships, resilience, and triumphs in the face of oppression.

Activism became more closely associated with music during the Civil Rights Movement (1960s), where musicians like Bob Dylan, Nina Simone and Sam Cooke powerfully wielded their musical abilities to address racial inequality and injustice. These artists impressively leveraged their popularity and platform to spotlight concerns related to social injustices and inspire people to courageously take up arms against them.

“We Shall Overcome” by Joan Baez (1963) became a popular anthem for the Civil Rights movement, being sung in many important marches and protests. The song was originally composed to overcome racial injustice, but later, it became an anthem for broader struggles, including labor rights; anti-apartheid movements; and global campaigns for freedom, equality, and peace.

Music was also historically significant in anti-war movements in the 1960s and 1970s. Many notable and celebrated artists like Neil Young and John Lennon channelled their music into protesting against the Vietnam War and advocating for peace. Songs such as “Give Peace a Chance” and “Ohio,” which captured the frustration and anger of many who shared similar sentiments, became official songs for rallies.

Britannica.com Joan Baez and Bob Dylan at the march on Washington August 28, 1963. (Alamy Stock Photo)

The Earth-Shattering Evolution of Activism Through Concerts and Festivals

From time immemorial, musicians have raised their voices to inspire social change and raise funds to support those suffering from injustice; festivals and concerts have been potent means of achieving these worthy goals. In 1971, George Harrison and Ravi Shankar, along with other popular musicians, released an album on Apple Records to raise awareness regarding the plight of East Pakistan refugees. Their efforts not only raised a lot of funds but also highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh to the entire world.

In 1992, Freddie Mercury, along with Elton John and many other artists, conducted a concert to increase awareness about AIDS, which garnered global attention and raised millions of dollars toward helping those affected by the disease.

Rowland Scherman

21st Century Torch Bearers of Social Activism

In the 21st century, scores of artists have continuously used their platform to fuel activism. For instance, Billie Eilish has publicly addressed her mental health issues and promotes body positivity through her song lyrics, connecting viscerally with those who struggle silently. Additionally, famous artists, such as Elton John, Troye Sivan, Lady Gaga, and Taylor Swift have been quite vocal about the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, often using their songs to spotlight their issues and empower them. Gaga’s ‘Born This Way’ became a powerful anthem for self-acceptance, while Swift’s ‘You Need to Calm Down’ sounds a clarion call to reject homophobia.

In addition to being socially responsible on digital platforms, new artists also strive to engage directly with their fans. Not only does this help them connect with their audience at a deeper level, but it also more strongly impacts their professional lives. People have seen Billie address her struggles with anxiety in between her performances, fostering a profound connection with her audience. Plenty of other artists also fuel their activism by incorporating personal experiences that make their messages more relatable and authentic to fans.

Events like the ‘Global Citizen Festival’ have played a crucial role in uniting music and activism. Such events empower the public to take steps against combating injustice and motivate them to create tangible impacts by signing petitions or donating to global causes. Many emerging artists are using social media, along with platforms like podcasts and YouTube, to spread awareness in different ways.

Getty Images

Activism that Angers Instead of Empowers

The public sometimes perceives certain musicians’ activism as performative antics that are just done to attract publicity or popularity. Influencers or musicians like Kylie Jenner and Drake, respectively, have faced backlash when advocating for environmental sustainability while participating in high-carbon pollution activities like taking private jets.

Kanye West has been responsible for supporting various activism-related causes like reducing homelessness and improving prison reform. Unfortunately, he sparked significant controversy in 2022 when he wore a “White Lives Matter” T-shirt during a fashion show in Paris. Some critics claimed it was a form of performative activism or an attempt to reclaim narratives about race and identity, while others viewed it as a tone-deaf or dangerous political statement.

folkalley.com (Alamy Stock Photo)

An Unbreakable Bond

As the conversation around activism in the music industry grows, so does the scrutiny faced by artists for their actions and motives. A great deal of celebrities have sparked controversy in the eyes of the audience, which reminds us that activism in the public eye can be messy and divisive. Ultimately, while some may question the motives behind artists’ actions, their music remains impactful as long as it conveys genuine truth. The key to meaningful activism lies in its consistency in messaging and ability to create tangible change, elements that both fans and critics continue to demand from their musical idols. Whether or not artists’ actions align with their messages about activism or not, it is undeniable that music is an invaluable tool for affecting social change. 

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