Songs of Protest

Today I will take you on a journey into the world of Protest Songs.
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The move to unionize labor was one of the places were protest music played a large part.

Joe Hill - Billy Bragg

Which Side Are You On? – Pete Seeger

Solidarity Forever - Pete Seeger

Union Maid - Pete Seeger & Arlo Guthrie


The overall human condition is another prime subject of the genre.

So long it's been good to know you - Woody Guthrie

Blowin' Down the Road - Woody Guthrie

Deportees - Bob Dylan & Joan Baez

Imagine – John Lennon

My Generation – The Who

Waist Deep In The Big Muddy - Pete Seeger


Perhaps the most popular and well known protest song – We Shall Overcome – originated in the labor movement but gained notoriety in the Civil Rights movement.

We Shall Overcome (LBJ film clip)

We Shall Overcome - Bruce Springsteen


Other Civil Rights songs from around the world.

Southern Man - Crosby, Stills Nash & Young

Strange Fruit - Billie Holiday

Beau John - Tom Paxton

Biko – Peter Gabriel

Bloody Sunday – U2


There are even songs protesting other protest songs.

Sweet Alabama - Lynard Skynard


Government and Politics are a prime target. Neil Young gives us his thoughts on the subject.

Neil Young's Protest Music

What Did You Learn In School? - Pete Seeger

Bad Day – REM

The Restless Consumer - Neil Young

For What It's Worth - Buffalo Springfield

Ohio – Crosby Stills Nash and Young

Who Speaks For Me - Tom Paxton

Masters Of War – Bob Dylan


The President himself is also frequently targeted.

Armageddon On Your Mind

What Have You Done - Heather Lev

Let's Impeach The President - Neil Young

Dear Mr President – Pink


War is also well represented.

I Feel Like I’m Fixin’ to Die Rag - Country Joe McDonald

Give Peace A Chance - John Lennon

Blowing in the Wind / Give Peace a Chance – Peter Paul & Mary

Buy A Gun For Your Son – Tom Paxton

What Have They Done To The Rain - The Seekers

Bring Them Home – Pete Seeger


The animals also get recognition.

Canadian Seal Cull Protest Song - Rolf Harris


Whale Song - Pearl Jam


Contemporary artists are taking up the cause.

Protst Song – Tom Morelo

Bush Protest Song - Chris Paulson

Everything That You Hold Dear


Even TV show characters and actors serve up their versions.

Union Strike Song - Lisa Simpson

Protest Song - Hugh Laurie