Music's Role in Activism
We frequently overlook the role of symbolism and double entendre in modern songwriting, yet within the melodies, there are so many hidden gems carrying messages that many ears think belong to the past. If you listen closely however, you can still hear today’s artists echoing the messages of their predecessors. Take for example Hozier’s “Nina Cried Power”. This song pays homage to Nina Simone’s “Sinnerman” –celebrating her legacy and activism. Both songs use powerful symbolism to convey themes of resistance against oppression, injustice and the struggle for human rights. “Power has been cried by those stronger than me…straight into the face that tells you to rattle your chains if you love being free.” This line from “Nina Cried Power”, references the hypocrisy of those people in power who chant freedom while having you in chains. The line "It's not the waking, it's the rising" emphasizes the necessity of action not just in awareness but also in speaking out against op...