The Influence Of Music On Social Justice Movements
Music remains a powerful force for social change shaping cultures and fostering unity.

Throughout the years, music has been an integral part of social movements. Music has long been recognized as a powerful force, capable of transcending boundaries and inspiring emotions. Beyond its capacity to entertain, music possesses the unique ability to catalyze social change. It has shaped cultures and societies around the world for generations. Music has the power to alter one’s mood, change perceptions, and inspire change

One reason music is used so much by social movements of any stripe is because of music’s sort of inherent emotional, as well as intellectual connection with people. And sort of bringing into consciousness for people, you know, ideas and maybe political situations they might not otherwise have thought about necessarily. While everyone has a personal relationship with music, its effects on the culture around us may not be immediately apparent.

So, how does music affect society? The impact of music on society is broad and deeply ingrained in our history.

How Does Music Affect Society

Music is an essential aspect of all human civilizations and has the power to emotionally, morally, and culturally affect society. When people from one culture exchange music with each other, they gain valuable insight into another way of life. Learning how music and social bonding are linked is especially crucial in times of conflict when other lines of communication prove to be challenging.

Music, as a cultural right, may aid in the promotion and protection of other human rights. It can help in the healing process, dismantling walls and boundaries, reconciliation, and education. Around the world, music is being used as a vehicle for social change and bringing communities together.

At the core of our everyday experience with music, we use it to relax, express ourselves, come to terms with our emotions, and generally improve our well-being. It has evolved into a tool for healing and self-expression, often dictating how we, as individuals, take steps to impact society.

The Impact of Music on Social Change

1. Building Empathy and Understanding: Music has a knack for evoking emotions and building empathy. It provides opportunities for cooperative and empathetic interactions, helping people sync up and develop empathy. Through storytelling and shared experiences, artists connect listeners to social issues, helping them understand diverse perspectives. This emotional connection is a powerful tool for building bridges and breaking down stereotypes.
2. Shaping Cultural Narratives: Music helps shape cultural narratives, challenging norms, and advocating for a more inclusive society. When artists tackle societal taboos or celebrate diversity, they contribute to a broader dialogue, influencing how society views and accepts different identities and experiences.
3. Creating Moments of Unity: In times of social upheaval, music can create moments of unity. Whether it’s a protest anthem or a song that captures the spirit of the times, music brings people together, fostering a shared sense of purpose and solidarity. These moments of unity can spark larger social movements.
4. Inspiring Action and Advocacy: Well-crafted songs with socially conscious messages can inspire people to take action. Whether it’s joining protests, supporting charities, or engaging in community initiatives, music has the power to mobilize listeners and turn awareness into real efforts for positive change.

Historical Perspectives: Music and Social Movements

1. Civil Rights Movement: Anthems for Equality: During the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, music played a central role in conveying the spirit of resistance and unity. Iconic songs like “We Shall Overcome” became anthems of the movement, fostering a sense of solidarity among activists. When you get to the civil rights movement in the 50s, there is already this kind of awareness and sense of using music to press for the social agenda. Artists like Nina Simone and Sam Cooke used their voices to address issues of racial inequality, discrimination, and the fight for civil rights.
2. Vietnam War Protests: A Soundtrack for Dissent: The anti-Vietnam War protests of the 1960s and 1970s were accompanied by a soundtrack of dissent. Musicians like Bob Dylan and John Lennon penned protest songs that became rallying cries for those opposing the war. Some songs expressed grief over the death of soldiers, such as Willie Nelson’s “Jimmy’s Road” (1965); and beyond grief, the futility of war, such as Tom Paxton’s “Jimmy Newman” (1969).

   The Animals’ hit song, “We Gotta Get Out of This Place” (1965), was not intended as an antiwar song but nonetheless became a theme song for U.S. soldiers in Vietnam longing to go home. 

   Other songs expressed the heartache of those at home, with a subtext of protest, such as Freda Payne’s melodious “Bring the Boys Home” (1971) and Martha and the Vandellas’s “I Should Be Proud” (1970):

   And they say that I should be proud; he was keepin’ me free.

   They say that I should be proud, those too blind to see.

   But he wasn’t fightin’ for me

   My Johnny didn’t have to die for me.

   He was fightin’ for the evils of society.

   The power of music to capture the sentiments of a generation was evident, influencing public opinion and contributing to the anti-war movement’s momentum.

3. Apartheid Resistance: Songs of Freedom: In South Africa, music played a pivotal role in the struggle against apartheid.  The use of songs and collective singing in the anti-apartheid struggle built on the wider social role of song in Black South African culture. Songs are sung to mark births, weddings, and other social gatherings, but also in the workplace. Songs still play a significant role in South African political cultures. They are sung at the start and end of political meetings, as well as during demonstrations and protests. Songs communicate shared social and political problems and a commitment to change in ways that political speeches and articles do not. Artists like Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela used their music to express resistance, solidarity, and the longing for freedom. Songs such as “Soweto Blues” and “Stimela” became anthems of the anti-apartheid movement, both within South Africa and internationally.

Contemporary Examples: Music and Social Advocacy

1. Hip-Hop and Social Justice: Hip-hop has become a major player in social justice. Artists like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Common are using their lyrics to call out systemic racism, police brutality, and economic inequality. This genre has given marginalized voices a powerful platform to speak out and spark important conversations about these issues.
2. Climate Change Awareness: Artists for the Planet: With climate change being a hot topic, many artists are stepping up for environmental advocacy. Common’s track "Trouble in the Water" dives deep into the Flint water crisis, highlighting years of environmental neglect with lines like “When the water starts to kill the fish / That's when you know how ill it is.” Jesse Paris Smith, her mom Patti Smith, and cellist Rebecca Foon use music to push for climate action too. Their performances of songs like ‘Wing’ and ‘People Have the Power’ send a strong message that we all can make a difference. In 2014, Jesse and Rebecca founded Pathway to Paris, a non-profit working to make the Paris Agreement a reality by helping cities aim for 100% renewable energy by 2040. They encourage fans to get involved and take action for the planet.
3. #MeToo Movement: Music Industry Reflection: The #MeToo movement has shone a light on the tough choices musicians often face, balancing their careers with the realities of sexual harassment. This movement has led to serious reflection and changes in the music industry, sparking conversations about power dynamics and accountability. It’s pushing the industry to handle allegations more responsibly and create a safer environment for everyone.

Why is Music Beneficial to Society?

Music has the power to connect with and influence people in a way that feels fundamentally different from other forms of communication. Humans often feel that “no one understands them” or knows how they “truly feel.” Many resort to music to find connections with others to express themselves or find a sense of understanding among peers.

We connect with others via music, especially those who produce or perform it — we recite their lyrics, dance to their melodies, and form a sense of connection through their self-expression.

Songs and melodies have the power to inspire people, guide their actions, and aid in the formation of identities. Music can unite people – even if absorbed in solitude, capture your imagination, and boost creativity. A person who has been affected by music is not alone. They are among the masses trying to find their role in society and form connections with others.

Final thoughts:

Music’s potential to drive social change is undeniable. From historical movements to contemporary advocacy, artists have harnessed the power of music to inspire, educate, and mobilize. The big takeaway? When musicians use their platforms authentically, informed, and committed to amplifying diverse voices, they can create real impact.

Moving forward, it’s crucial to remember that music isn’t just entertainment—it’s a powerful tool for unity and change. By embracing this, musicians can continue to foster a more just, empathetic, and interconnected world, one song at a time.