RISE UP AND SING!

Illuminates the tremendous impact of activist artists and songs on individuals, communities, and social movements both past and present.

As the global demand for social change expands, the need for protest music has only grown. The book’s eight chapters focus on climate justice; gender equality; peace movements; and Indigenous, racial, disability, LGBTQ+, and general human rights. To signify that musicians often address multiple issues in their songs, the book uses symbols—a globe icon for climate justice and a sun symbol for Indigenous rights—which are introduced in the table of contents and repeated later, where relevant, next to each artist’s name. Each chapter opens with an overview of the topic and goes on to include notable musicians, information about specific songs and videos that have made an impact, a suggested playlist, and three thought-provoking discussion questions. A broad range of talent is represented, from artists with decades of fame like Neil Young, Jimi Hendrix, and Aretha Franklin, to newer stars like Billie Eilish, Beyoncé, and Lizzo, and many others who are less commonly known. There is also significant racial, national, and ethnic diversity, notably many Indigenous voices. The colorful illustrations and photographs break up the heavy text. This volume would serve as an excellent resource for readers already deeply interested in the subject matter; due to the evocative song descriptions, it could also whet the appetite of casual browsers.

An inspiring deep dive into the history of activist music.