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.

BLACK AND GOLD SUPERBOWL

The NFL Super Bowl is a popular event that many Americans tune into. One of the main events of the Super Bowl is the half time show. Much thought goes into this performance when choosing who will perform and what will be done. Ever since Janet Jackson's infamous stripping, the Super Bowl halftime show is watched carefully by all and censored. The Super Bowl is one of the biggest events in America, so the performers chosen to perform must be big named bands or artists. Trademark American bands and artists are chosen to entertain all of the watchers. This year's band was The Who playing some famous hits such as "Pinball Wizard," "Baba O'Riley," "Who Are You," "See Me, Feel Me," "Won't Get Fooled Again." The performance kept the audience on the edge of their seat and rocking out. This English rock band from 1964 brought the roof down and fulfilled their expectations for the halftime perfomance of Super Bowl XLIV! Below is a clip from the halftime show. The energy in the Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens was turned up to its fullest!

The Grammys: definition of Idealism.

Idealism: the philosophical theory that says that reality is based on mind or ideas. We are told what is good, bad, wrong, and right. From music, to clothing, to careers and so on we are told what is best and what is wrong. A great example of this is the Grammys which aired January 31st 2010. They give awards to "best male artist", "best female artist", "best music video", etc. Thousands of viewers watch this and are told who is the hottest artist and the best music. Many viewers do not even agree with some of the awards given. Solely receiving the Grammy, artist are suddenly bolstered up to greatest whatever. For example, Taylor Swift. Please. Greatest album of the year in comparison to Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Black Eyed Peas and Dave Matthews Bands?! I think my dog can sing better than her. She is said to have THE ALBUM OF THE YEAR, but in reality, many viewers STRONGLY disagree with that. Its apparent that her music does NOT top any of the other nominees by just witnessing her terrible performance that night. I just find it ridiculous how out of control this is. They're telling us that Taylor Swift is the album to have and rock out to. Just because she won this award, viewers are probably going to buy the album and see for themselves....just as my mom did. When speaking of Idealism, one can flip the channel to the Grammys and get a great sense of what idealism is about. A world that is based on thoughts of what is believed to be right and where Taylor Swift is the music goddess.

Who Dat?! WE DAT!

Who dats all over New Orleans boogied down to many Saints themed songs this football season. Through songs, fans and the Saints players get pumped up about the game and give instant confident boosters. Its interesting to me how the New Orleans Saints has numerous songs written or performed in their honor. This is the way we live, New Orleans Saints # 1 on the field..man, that must make the team feel pretty damn good. Stand up and get crunk makes fans go pretty much insane. And U2's The Saints Are Coming makes the players and fans feel at home in the dome. These songs definatly play a role in the Saints non-stop success. The music pumps up the crowd, which in return makes the players feel confidant!
New Orleans is a city with deep roots in music, which makes sense as to why who dats are constantly on their feet during the game dancing, cheering, and, well..being typical New Orleans Saints fans!
I believe that music plays such a great role in completing a New Orleans Saints game in the dome. It gives fans the full experience of being one of many who dats. I mean, really, who doesn't get pumped up when STAND UP AND GET CRUNK is blaring in your ears?!

Declaring Independence through Music

Throughout time there have been many artists declaring his or her independence, strong beliefs, and political views through his or her music. Some of the greatest hits emerged during times of political turmoil, civil war, and racist times. Music created for protest, I believe, is some of the greatest music. Not only does it have such great meaning behind it, but this music brings with it great history to last throughout time. Music written out of protest is simply empowering. When listening to the music you can feel at one with the artist and feel what he or she is trying to portray to the audience.
Bob Marley and The Wailers 'Get Up Stand Up' written 1973 is a song that rebelling against oppression. To me it is one of the greatest protesting songs because it sends across such a strong message to those being oppressed. Their powerful rebel against oppression is shown clearly throughout this song. With such great purpose behind this song, it gives the oppressed peoples hope. Through music, the people can feel, at least for a number of minutes, relieved. Through music they can receive a powerful message.
This is just one example of artists being inspired by protesting and speaking out for what he or she believes to be right. I believe that music is the best way to get the public aware of important issues that are sometimes overlooked. Music is personal. It reaches out to people and touches their inner soul, rather than a newspaper or a news story. Music goes deeper than that by expressing thoughts through lyric and rhythm.

One of the greatest protest songs from 1973

Hello world!

Hey everyone, welcome to my blog! My music interest is very ecclectic. From pop sensations such a Britney Spears to rock and roll bands like Nirvana. Music that brings across an interesting, catchy message along with a great beat always catchs my interest. Unfortunatly, there are those bands that are complete failures at creating great music without seeming overly dramatic and cheesy. Prime example, Nickleback. They tend to struggle...greatly. Music is such a great way to express how I'm feeling.