By Caleb Tyrone Armstrong
Throughout American history music has played a vital role. Through every phase of life music has walked hand-in-hand through the growing pains of America.
Through the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950’s and 1960’s the rise of Freedom songs gave courage to demonstrators. It provided hope in dangerous moments and carried the message of equality across the United States. Church gatherings, rallies, jail cells and picket lines became places where music strengthened the struggles for justice.
Many of these songs were rooted in African American spirituals, gospel traditions, blues, and folk music. Singing together created solidarity among protesters. These songs helped them endure arrests, violence, and intimidation. The lyrics would spread messages about freedom, voting rights, and equality. Freedom songs often expressed determination without violence. Many of these songs connected the movement to faith and hope.
Some key artists that provided hope through songs are:
• Mahalia Jackson with her powerful performance of songs like “How I Got Over” inspired activists and audiences alike.
• Sam Cooke with “A Change Is Gonna Come” one of the defining songs of the Civil Rights Movement.
• Nina Simone and her powerful songs like “Mississippi Goddam” and “To Be Young Gifted and Black”
• James Brown’s “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud became an anthem of Black pride during the late civil rights and Black Power era.
There were so many other artists of all musical genre’s that wrote songs of empowerment and encouragement during this time period. They inspired and supported the betterment of society and full equality for all.
As America continues to move forward and history appears to repeat itself the music of the Civil Rights Movement continues to influence artists today. Modern musicians in Hip-Hop, Gospel, R&B, Jazz, and Folk often draw on the themes and sounds that were created during the struggle for racial equality in the in the 1950’s and 1960’s. However, as the times of today seem to indicate new struggles it’s proven that new artist will continue to create songs that will encourage and uplift.
They have shown that the songs of protest, resilience, faith and freedom will always be birthed, and as demonstrated in the past artist will always have the ability to bring to life songs that fit the times of the day.
Also, as proven there’s always a connection to a divine source that provides the perfect melody and words to fit the moment.
