The Music of Black Struggle
From Marvin to Beyoncé
Music has long been an indicator of cultural trends. Black artists in particular have, historically, made a monumental contribution to the music industry. Our culture, our struggles, and our successes have been present in the music we’ve listened to over the decades, and still do to this day. From the doo-wop bands of the 1950s, the Motown Hits of the 1960s, and the disco era of the 1970s, we can look back on music and get a sense of black life during each period. Whether it was Billie Holiday’s Strange Fruit, Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, or NWA’s Fuck The Police, Black music continues to be the soundtrack to so many black lives, and for America (and the world).
The nuances of Black life are often illustrated in the music created by Black artists. Being Black is “lit,” but it’s far from easy, particularly right now. For some, right now is a sad time because of the constant reminders that we are living in a world that does not see us as human. On the other hand, Black pride is at an all-time high with many organizations and consumers going out of their way to support Black businesses and initiatives. It is the best of times and the worst of times. Perhaps, on the other side of the pain and protests, stands the necessary and lasting change we have all been praying for.
History is being made every day, and these ten songs describe the Black experience of the 1950s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 2000s, 2010s, and today. Yes, same as it ever was. There have been many tears, much anger, and even some feelings of despair. However, healing, creating, and community building are also taking place. As you read the lyrics or listen to the following songs, immerse yourself in the production, take in the lyrics, feel the struggle and injustice, and ask yourself, what side of history are you on?
10. Beyonce — Black Parade
Black Parade was the preceding track for Black Is King, the visual album for Beyonce’s The Gift. Black Parade is an ode to Black culture and music, referring to many things we all grew up around. (Lyrics)
9. Michael Jackson — They Don’t Care About Us
A classic tune with a powerful message. They Don’t Care About Us was released in the 90s, but still rings true today. Applicable to both police brutality and the US Government’s lackluster response to COVID-19; it makes you wonder; do they really care about us? (Lyrics)
8. Usher — I Cry
Released in July of 2020, I Cry describes what many of us have felt in 2020. Surrounded by pain, death, and injustice, it can sometimes be hard to see hope, and in those moments it’s okay to cry. Though emotional, Usher does a good job of bringing compassion to the forefront of situations fueled by hate. (Lyrics)
7. Lil Baby — The Bigger Picture
Lil Baby is the youngest artist on this list, but he perfectly describes the reality of life for some Black Americans, along with many impoverished Americans. The relationship between crime, poverty, and the police has an extensive history in this country with a long way to go to improve it; in The Bigger Picture, Lil Baby acknowledges all three. (Lyrics)
6. Blood Orange — Charcoal Baby
For many Black people, particularly creatives, 2020 has been something like the year of the phoenix, with forced rebirth and re-creation. Whether you are changing jobs, losing relationships, etc. this powerful song speaks to much of that from the powerful intro accompanied by a saxophone, throughout the entire song. (Lyrics)
5. Juicy J — Hella Fuckin’ Trauma (Enough Is Enough)
Enough Is Enough is a true Juicy J song, featuring his classic production and 3–6 Mafia sound, but it echoes the anger and frustration many Black people have felt for a long time. If you’ve ever seen Ava Duvernay’s documentary, 13th, Hella Fuckin’ Trauma should be on the soundtrack. Like so many of his peers in the music industry, he is stepping up and saying enough is enough. (Lyrics)
4. Kendrick Lamar — Alright
Kendrick is arguably one of the greatest rappers of this era and Alright is one of the songs that cemented that legacy. The jazzy beat blended with the raw, introspective lyrics will certainly give listeners a lot to think about while also offering a piece of optimism — we gon’ be alright. (Lyrics)
3. Tupac — Changes
It’s hard to say Tupac was before his time because we needed him just as much back then as we do now. Changes not only addresses police brutality and systemic racism, but touches on issues like parenting, poverty, and violence within the Black community. (Lyrics)
2. James Brown — Say It Loud
We are witnessing something like a cultural renaissance. Not only are more Black entrepreneurs emerging than ever before, but the message of community and shopping Black has taken off. Even in the face of so much adversity, Black empowerment seems to be on the rise. (Lyrics)
1. Marvin Gaye — What’s Going On
Coming in at number one is a song that got many of our parents through the Civil Rights and Vietnam eras. Globally, there is so much happening; war, violence, poverty, and pain. There can’t be any answer other than love, which Marvin Gaye makes clear in this song. (Lyrics)
How to make a difference?
These songs not only provide an illustration for what Black people experience every day but should also open your mind to be willing to learn about other perspectives and should prepare your heart to be open to change. Though one person cannot change the world, little by little we can all have a big impact.
“I’m not saying I’m gonna rule the world or I’m gonna change the world, but I guarantee you that I will spark the brain that will change the world…” ― Tupac Shakur
Register to vote! Then go vote on November 3rd and make your voice count. Every person has a role in making change, and each of us must play our role. — God Bless.
