10 Rocking Songs for Activists

An ironic, rocking classic that reminds us the more things change, the more they stay the same. The revolution can become the oppressors... Amusing too.

A song with real values that speaks from the heart about all the hate we can spread to one another through violence and greed. Strong questions, bold and ultimately positive. Catchy too!

Can't decide which version I enjoy more, the original or the remake. Joni Mitchell's is more folksy and spare (and the singing about DDT is more convincing coming from the songwriter and contemporary of the issue), but the Counting Crows/Vanessa Carlton has that fun beat, still earnest vocals, and paving parking lots is still happening. And we're even closer to having tree museums than we were before. Both are worth a listen.

A soothing song, which sounds a little like the holidays to me... Wonderful piano music, healing to the soul, and renewingly hopeful. Reinforces the idea that we are not crazy to want certain basics: a simple home, care, trust, peace on earth.

A cry to faith for guidance in the sometimes dizzying array of societal and world challenges. A haunting and melodic beat keeps pace. Kanye convincingly argues the point that songs which directly mention religion/spirituality are avoided on the radio while sex and violence are sold. I don't argue in favor of any particular religion, but I like all the issues he addresses. Controversial, bold, and gutsy. A great tune for a saner world. [Note: I've included the clean version in this module.]

A good one if you've been fighting against corruption and frustrating, powerful institutions for awhile... The Foo Fighters wrote this one in 2007 and it's just as relevant today. A rocking beat that will get you fired up again.

Another original (Crowded House) plus excellent cover. It's about being in love, but also probably a commentary on the Berlin Wall coming down... The lyrics leave enough ambiguity for the listener to derive satisfaction from imagining one's own situation. This one is good when you're worried about the world situation (and people in general) tearing you apart, and need something upbeat.

A classic written about fighting against oppression. Great reggae rhythm, manages to make me want to dance while being completely inspiring. Mr. Marley is famous for a reason.

An activist friend of mine recommended Michael Franti, so he's been field-tested. A lot can be accomplished when we stop fighting each other, so this one's got a great message and a true grassroots feel to the music as well.

It's all well and good to think about what's gone wrong, but sometimes you get an awful guilt trip and start to cry. Sometimes you need a powerful vision of what it is that you're working towards. In this song, the flowers and nature have replaced industrialization. Life is good. Enjoy!