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For the longest time, music was considered a simple form of entertainment. However, the role of music in social movements is severely undermined. It is a peaceful means of protest, but it also encourages community and allows for freedom of expression.
Music as a tool of social change was only considered in the 1950s-1960s. Since then, people across the world have used it as a way to express their opinion in a peaceful and collected method.
Music Can Inspire Social Change
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Music fosters community: Music tends to bring people together. Across the world, there are several songs that everyone knows. It gives us a universal language to help us share joy, despair, irritation, anger, and more. With music, communities can find kinship while still getting their message across.
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Music encourages strong emotions: Have you ever felt moved by a song that you listened to? Do you have a song that brings you comfort? If your answer is yes, then you understand that music can incite strong emotions in people. If a song has a message that not everyone can relate to, they are still likely to remember it because of their emotions while hearing it.
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Music needs listeners: The point of music in social change is to engage the audience. When tackling any issue, awareness is key. Misinformation tends to trivialize a situation. Music can help amass an audience and direct them to the actual problems rather than the constant misinformation we are subjected to.
In the US, during the 1950s and 1960s, music was used as a tool to address issues. Notably, during the 1960s, musicians like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez used their names to raise awareness about the American Civil Rights Movement.
Music was an essential tool for those working to win rights for the African American community in the USA. Many freedom songs were composed during this era. During the Civil Rights movement–and several other movements across the world even today–music played a key role in encouraging action, boosting morale, and building community.
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FAQs
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What freedom songs have had an impact on society today?
“We Shall Overcome,” “Amazing Grace,” and “I Want to Break Free” are some famous freedom songs.
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Who are some famous musicians who wrote music for social change?
Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Bob Marley, and Queen are just a few famous artists who wrote freedom songs.
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How important is music for social change?
Music is an important form of protest that helps voice an opinion and bring people together. It can encourage others to join a movement for social equality.
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What roles has music played in history?
Music has been an integral part of shaping community, religion, and culture.
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