Since this is Election week, I thought that instead of a normal review I’d give you five songs I’ll be bumping when I’m on my way to the polls. So take note. Here’s a little theme music for your voting pleasure.
First up is the Bob Marley’s tune, “Get Up, Stand Up.” This song has been a call to action for decades, originally appearing on The Wailers 1973 album, “Burnin’.” It embodies the spirit of any person that has the drive to actually push for social change. It is also one of the most recognizable songs in any genre, which is a testament to Marley’s talent as a songwriter. Many of his songs had political undertones, but this one best embodies what voting is about: standing up and being counted.
Next on the list is the Public Enemy anthem, “Fight the Power.” This song was made for the film, “Do the Right Thing,” Spike Lee’s commentary on race relations in 1980s Brooklyn. It applies here, because the best way to fight the power is to vote, so that those chosen to represent you actually reflect your values. The song features the signature Bomb Squad sound and features some of Chuck D’s finest lyrical moments.
Moving on, next is The Clash’s “Guns of Brixton.” Okay this one is admittedly a bit more militant, but what would you expect from the band that gave us “Combat Rock.” The relentless attitude to defiantly stand up in the face of adversity makes this song one of my favorites for the occasion. Not to mention, the song has one of the dopest bass lines known to man. If anyone ever asks why they were known as the only band that matters, this is certainly good evidence.
Next to bat is Marvin Gaye’s “Inner City Blues.” Many would choose “What’s Going On,” but I just feel more connected to this song. Honestly, you could choose almost any song off that album and it would work, but we all have our favorites. Furthermore, even though it was released in 1971, the observations raised in the song are sadly still relevant, which is what makes voting so important to me.
Rounding out the group is the Sam Cooke classic, “A Change is Gonna Come.” There’s a reason why this song was the unofficial theme song of the Civil Rights Movement. The songs thoughtful lyrics combined with Cooke’s powerful vocals were the perfect background music for a generation of people who actually believed they could change the world.
It’s unfortunate that in today’s social climate that I couldn’t, in good conscience, include anything made in the last 15 years. In a time when the music industry is focused on excess, it’s good to see artists like Green Day and Lupe Fiasco not afraid to be political. However, I’m still waiting for that one song from our generation that embodies the spirit of the songs on this list. Until then, feel free to use these songs as your soundtrack to hitting the polls on Election Day.
