PROTEST SONGS IN THE AGE OF AUTHORITARIANISM: CHALLENGING AUTHORITY THROUGH MUSIC INTRODUCTION Throughout history, protest music has been crucial to social and political movements. It has been applied to voice disagreement, defy authority, and spur change. Protest songs together and bring people together and mobilize them for a common cause. They have been a crucial tool for activists to spread awareness of social and political issues and build relationships with people who share their complaints. Resistance against authoritarian governments or regimes has frequently taken the form of protest music. In these situations, it can be a potent tool for undermining the legitimacy of the government, enlisting the support of the populace in the fight …show more content…
The movement flourished in 1940s and peaked in the 1960s. The movement was marked by nonviolent protests and civil disobedience, led by prominent figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa parks and others. This was made possible by many organisations who carried the movement outside the purview of social institutions. One such organisation which encouraged collective action for removing racism discrimination, and segregation in the country was ‘The National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People’ …show more content…
Protests began to emerge due to motivating elements. It had a clear idea of the goals to be met and the ideology to adhere to. Additionally, the movement's leadership was chosen by the general populace, giving it a solid foundation and strategy for protest and goal-achieving. The protest music fostered a sense of community and solidarized people around a common goal, which is a crucial component of a social movement. It helped to instil in the populace, the concepts of freedom and resistance to the repressive authoritarian regimes of the corrupt ruling class. We frequently overlook the fact that music serves purposes beyond just enjoyment. Music has been a crucial part of defining injustice, the fight for equality, and the wish for peace in every generation of protest. Social and historical values are defined through music. Due to its ability to effortlessly reach a large audience and spread strong messages, music has also been used as a tool for communication. Protest music is also a universal weapon for social change because it can overcome barriers of language and culture. Protest music still serves as a source of inspiration and a unifying force in the global movement against injustice and