Then and Now

We look back on the past and think "gosh, I'm so glad I didn't live back then." We have this idea that today we live a better and more ordered life than we did in the past. But is this necessarily true? Are political disappointments less common today? Are there less homeless people on the streets? Has crime risen or fallen? Is our society today THAT MUCH different from how it was years ago? Hopefully these questions open your eyes to the fact that times really haven't changed THAT much. Now, I'm not denying the awesome convenience of a cell phone or ipod. I'm leaning towards more of the political spectrum. The 60's was a time period of chaos. From the civil rights movement to the Vietnam War, disappointment and protest were common amongst many citizens. Many songs written during this time can be listened to today and still apply to our political condition. The main aspect that we have in common with 60's is war. Many furious artists wrote songs in protest of the Vietnam war. One example is 'Eve of Destruction' by P.F. Sloan written in 1965. Almost every phrase of this song can be interpreted as a song protesting the war happening today. Music one form of evidence that shows just how much things have changed from the past. I believe it to be disappointing how many songs written during the 60's can apply to today's conditions. Although we have made many advancements technologically, have we really made any progress politically speaking? And if so, is it really that much?

Importance of Protest Songs

Many may ask whats the importance of protest songs? Its not like these songs are hits or at the top of the charts. Many people don't even know about many protest songs. The truth is, protest songs aren't popular because they can't be. Many mainstream radio stations won't allow these songs to play on their station. This is sad because most protest songs have meaningful, powerful messages to get across to the public. Protest songs are important because they allow others to know that they are not alone. It helps the audience to realize that they are not the only ones upset with certain injustices in our world. They give a sense of community which allows groups to organize together and make change. The importance of protest music is seen throughout American history. Every major movement in American history has it's own set of protest songs. From slave emancipation to women's suffrage, the labor movement, civil rights, the anti-war movement, the feminist movement, the environmental movement, etc. Each has its own protest song speaking out against these injustices. Phil Ochs was one of the greatest protest song writer. His short career consisted of many songs ripping at just about every aspect of society, and all sides of the political spectrum. His song, "What are you fighting for" addresses many social issues.