There’s no doubt that music is a form of self-expression. And many artists not only use the recording booth as a hit-making platform, but also as a medium to impact social change and connect with their fans across the globe.
June is African-American Music Month. Created by President Jimmy Carter, every president since then has encouraged people to celebrate the month.
From James Brown’s 1968 classic, “I’m Black and I’m Proud” and Queen Latifah’s tribute to sisters, to Kanye West praising Jesus, each song’s message has gone on to resonate with legions of listeners.
James Brown – I’m Black and I’m Proud
Sam Cooke – A Change is Gonna Come
Michael Jackson – Heal the World
N.W.A. – F*** the Police
TLC – Waterfalls
Salt & Pepa – Let’s Talk about Sex
Kanye West – Jesus Walks
Chaka Khan – I’m Every Woman
Billie Holiday – Strange Fruit
Bob Marley – Redemption Song
Various Artists – We Are the World
Aretha Franklin – Respect
Public Enemy – Fight the Power
Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On
Queen Latifah – U.N.I.T.Y.