Music can unify people in a profound way through lyrics and storytelling.

Black artists in America have long used music as a medium to express their struggles and experiences as well as their hope for change. While today we look back on these Black ballads and protest anthems with respect, they were often received with backlash and aggression upon release.

Songs featured:

“PEOPLE GET READY” – The Impressions

“INNER CITY BLUES”— Marvin Gaye (Performed By Devon Gilfillian)

“FIGHT THE POWER”—The Isley Brothers (Live)

 “WAKE UP EVERYBODY”—Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes (Performed By John Legend & The Roots)

"THE MOTOR CITY IS BURNING" – John Lee Hooker

"A CHANGE IS GONNA COME" – Sam Cooke

"THE REVOLUTION WILL NOT BE TELEVISED" – Gil Scott-Heron

"SAY IT LOUD (I'M BLACK AND I'M PROUD)" – James Brown

All work is copyright by the respective performers, songwriters, and publishers. Music and short lyric quotations have been used under "Fair Use" guidelines for educational purposes, commenting, and critiques.