Although R&B is mostly known as lovers' music, there's been a long history of performers using the music to make a point or further a social or political agenda. With that said, here's your R&B Guide's picks for the 10 best R&B social/political protest songs.
Although R&B is mostly known as lovers' music, there's been a long history of performers using the music to make a point or further a social or political age... more
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06/08/07
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1
A Change is Gonna Come
Sam Cooke
One of the most powerful songs ever about social change, "A Change Is Gonna Come" was one of the first overtly political songs by an R&B artist. Although it was only a moderately successful commercially when it was released in the mid-1960s, it eventually became a shining, somber anthem for the civil rights movement and has been covered over the years by everyone from Three Dog Night (in 1969) to Leela James (in 2005).
2
Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)
Marvin Gaye
A poignant call for attention to the plight of America's urban areas, as well as a plea for help, "Inner City Blues" vividly depicted life in the bleak ghettos of inner-city America and how such a life can make you cry out in frustration: "Make me wanna holler, the way they do my life, This ain't livin,' this ain't livin'."
3
You Haven't Done Nothin
Stevie Wonder
Stevie gets righteously indignant -- but in a very funky manner. Even today, this frank condemnation of the US government's lack of attention to the inner-city packs a powerful wallop.
4
Respect
Aretha Franklin
A demand for - well, respect - that is strongly associated with the Queen of Soul and has become an anthem for women's rights. Ironically, the song was written and originally recorded by Otis Redding as a plea for respect from a woman.
5
What's Going On
Marvin Gaye
Released in 1971 on the album of the same name, "What's Goin' On" is a firm, yet gentle protest against the Vietnam War and other societal and global ills of the time.
6
Say It Loud (I'm Black an I'm Proud)
James Brown
The title says it all. A funky, funky racial pride - and anti-racism - anthem.
7
Mercy Mercy Me (the Ecology)
Marvin Gaye
One of the very few R&B or Soul songs you'll ever hear about global pollution and other environmental issues.
8
Everyday People
Sly & The Family Stone
A funky anti-racism sing-along. The song is one of Sly Stone's pleas for peace and equality between differing races and social groups, a major theme and focus for the band.
9
Big Black Buck
Donnie
This song, released in 2002, sends a strong anti-consumerism message. The little-known singer is a cousin of the late, great Marvin Gaye.
10
A Time to Love
Stevie Wonder
This nine-minute epic anti-war song, from an album of the same name, was released in October, 2005. It features background vocals by India.Arie, plus Sir Paul McCartney on guitar.
[source: About.com ]
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