Music has always been a powerful tool for expressing feelings and emotions, especially during the Civil Rights Era. Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna Come” and Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright” are some of the most iconic songs that have become rallying cries for freedom, equality and justice. These anthems of the Black Movement provide a powerful platform to express our struggles and aspirations, inspiring people to fight for their rights and stand up for what is right.
These 10 Black power songs for equality are a rallying cry for freedom, from the Civil Rights Era through today. They not only provide hope but a sense of solidarity among African Americans that can help bring about real change in our society.
“A Change Is Gonna Come,” Sam Cooke
A timeless classic, Sam Cooke’s iconic message of yearning for progress holds true from 1964 all the way through to today.
“I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free,” Nina Simone
Nina Simone’s voice—even with the quality of a 1967 microphone—swirls in your chest and hits the listener right at home. Her desire for equality makes this a Black woman’s anthem for every generation.
“K.O.S. (Determination),” Black Star ft. Vinia Mojica
Mos Def and Talib Kweli tell a tale of freedom, incarceration and spirituality in this 1998 hip hop anthem.
“Love’s In Need Of Love Today,” Stevie Wonder
Songs In The Key Of Life (1976) in its entirety is a beautiful and empowering album, but this song specifically reminds us to practice kindness and champion love.
“Get Up, Stand Up,” Bob Marley
What would a freedom playlist be without Bob Marley? His 1973 powerful ballad passionately calls for his audience to fight for their rights and stay in touch with their divine side.
“Freedom,” Beyoncé ft. Kendrick Lamar
A modern cry for equality, Beyoncé embodies a storm searching for freedom from her 2016 album “Lemonade.”
“Steve Biko (Stir it Up),” A Tribe Called Quest
Named after a South African dissident, A Tribe Called Quest’s 1993 hit is a love letter to New York City, a questioning of the status quo and a call to “stir it up” all in one song.
“Boss,” Little Simz
Little Simz always captures the rage and beauty of black femininity with her music. Her 2019 album GREY Area is particularly powerful in its empowerment of the listener.
“DNA,” Kendrick Lamar
From his 2017 Pulitzer-winning album DAMN., Kendrick Lamar describes his personal conflicting and interlocking aspects of identity as a Black man in “DNA.”
“I Am That I Am,” Peter Tosh
Peter Tosh upholds his values of individuality in the face of adversity and oppression in his 1977 song.
