The Evolution of American Protest Music
The American protest music has historical underpinnings and characterized the historical transition of the nation from one era to another. The analysis of the use of rhetoric from the time of Yankee Doodle to Kendrick Lamar shows how the revolution and social change undertones embedded in music had a huge role in the alignment of not just social change but also political transformations.
The Evolution of Protest Music in America
But, it is imperative to understand that the American protest music evolved and metamorphosed over the years, from the Civil War refrains to Trump videos and the same shows how the American society has also changed over the time. However, it should be understood that protest music has been around for centuries as long as people have been forced to agitate against all forms of injustice.
The Historical Roots of American Protest Music
However, from an American viewpoint and based on its history protest music emerged through phenomenon such as slavery, but the tradition dates back to the days when the country was founded when the call for 'Free America' became a norm. The 20th Century characterized by the Civil War also evoked a wave of protest music as evidenced by the popularity of the electrical music. Music genre such as soul music, rap and rock of the 80s and 90s also marked the era of protest music in the country. The events of 9/11 also sparked a new wave of protest music as it fostered a deep pool of emotions. Bands like the Green Dat and the Bright Eyes satirized the US position in the post 9/11 era. Finally, the Trump era has also witnessed its fair share of protest music. From the highlighted examples, it is evident that the author believes that protest music has social, cultural, economic and political intrigues and this must always be analyzed and understood. The same is supported by the content of John Brown Song and not to mention songs by Kendrick Lamar and "Yankee Doodle".
Works Cited
Henwood, Bridgett. "The History of American Protest Music, From “Yankee Doodle” To Kendrick Lamar". 2018, https://www.vox.com/culture/2017/4/12/14462948/protest-music-history-america-trump-beyonce-dylan-misty. Accessed 5 Sept 2018.
