The Sound of Political Chaos
The political occurrences of the past year have been ubiquitous and a tad overwhelming. As an American, I've witnessed a lot of disappointing events from my laptop screen in the UK. Often times I have chose to escape all the horrible news by going to the local comic book store and loading up on other worlds, but one thing that has irritated me through all this is my urge to do something, but without much direction. I want to help make things better, but how? How from another country could I attempt to mend any of these issues so ingrained in the states?
The only thing I have thought as a proper response was to get involved. When I hear someone demeaning another based on who they are, I say something. It is really easy to just detach yourself or ignore the political climate and tensions, but that truly is illustrative of the privilege one holds. That privilege comes with a level of responsibility; to stand up for those without said privilege..
ISIS, Trump, neo-nazis, police brutality, racism...it's all so much, but needs to be faced. It's heartbreaking to watch families torn apart due to flawed immigration laws. It's heartbreaking to hear of friends from home held by TSA despite being citizens. It's heartbreaking to watch indigenous people be stolen from time and time again. What ever happened to the concept of the "American Dream," being able to come be part of a melting pot of cultures and strive to live the life you want.
Despite the political noise, there has been quite the history of musicians using their platform to share a message of hope and peace. And I am not referring to a tweet. Actually using their art form to speak on a level that average words cannot. Songs about politics or as they are often called "protest songs" are able to transcend spoken word.
Below is a song I came across, mostly drawn to the title.
The Script's Divided States of America is voicing the concerns a lot of individuals feel, but have not had the chance to express. Divided States of America is a start, but I'm looking forward to hopefully hearing more songs like these.
Next up, is a different version of The Black Eyed Peas song Where Is The Love. Definitely prefer this version to the original, although the original was very Top 40 radio friendly, which almost seems to be what would be wonderful to hear about now.
Naturally, you cannot speak or write about politically charged music without mentioning the following great, Marvin Gaye's What's Going On.
As years pass and different issues come to light, these all still seem to be so incredibly applicable today. The question is are we having the same tensions time and time again (and in some regards we are) or that these songs are truly timeless pieces of art. I encourage you to get political with your art, whatever your medium is, because that is what gets remembered and heard above the noise; not a tweet or a Facebook post. In creating, we help achieve the world we want to be a part of.
Everyday it almost seems as if there is something new and unfavorable happening. In these times it is best to bring something of beauty into the world. To add positivity. To make your neighbor smile. To stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves.
I am expecting there to be a flood of new political-themed songs, since Trump has become president. I am excited for the art that will come out of this dark time, I am also excited and hopeful that these beautiful creations can over shadow all of the negative events. Things need to be fixed, history needs some correcting. We need to realize we are all in this together.
What are your favorite political tunes? Let me know in the comments!