Abstract

It is the event that history will show every protest movement in any country or culture will give rise to songs of protest because they can organize and mobilize the masses. Whether it is silent or active revolt does not matter, but protest movements are birth amongst situations where there is oppression and the curtailment of liberties and freedoms. As in any art form where art imitates life, it can be said that birthing protest songs come from artists and musicians who see the reality, see the struggle, see the inescapability and futility of the battle, and pens an art and a communication tool to deliver the message to the audience to inspire action to change the situation. The author concludes that music is indeed a tool for unifying people. People need music not just for the aesthetics of it but more so to communicate the truth and allow discernment of injustices of the times. They serve to remind us that there is nothing impossible when people become united. Unity will enable them to tread the impossible path to pursue noble causes such as freedom and human rights. Protest songs will remain popular so long as people need to be united in one purpose. It is used to inspire confidence, boost morale, and serve as a beacon of hope amidst the uncertainty of the times and situations.

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