Filed under: Black Music Month
From The Grio: Perhaps there has been no greater cultural export from African-American culture than its music. If, as Chuck D once announced, rap is black America's CNN, then music overall has served as a rallying cry against injustice and fueled black America's soundtrack for change. In honor of Black Music History Month, here are 25 songs that speak to music's ability to evoke thought, dialogue and action:"Get Up, Stand Up" - Bob Marley & The Wailers
Written by Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, "Get Up, Stand Up," released in 1973, was among The Wailers' first international hits. A song of political importance encouraging ordinary citizens to "get up, stand up, stand up for your rights," Marley frequently ended his concerts with this song, which is reportedly the last song he performed live on stage before his death in 1981.
"Happy Birthday" - Stevie Wonder
Sometimes simplicity can compel a cause and this 1981 Stevie Wonder hit, advocating for a national holiday commemorating Dr. King's Birthday, is a testament to that. In addition to rallying African-Americans around a King Holiday, this version of "Happy Birthday" has supplanted all others for most African-Americans.
"Man in the Mirror" - Michael Jackson
One of Michael Jackson's most introspective songs, this 1988 classic, co-written by Siedah Garrett, didn't just speak of social ills but challenged the singer and those listening to "take a look in the mirror and then make a change."
See the full list here.