Friday, April 18, 2008
This is a protest song because...
The protest song I am choosing to example is "Wake Up" by Rage Against the Machine. This song was released on their self-titled debut album and has gained much attention for its political agenda. The song is basically a wake up call to those listening to question and analyze the current administration in the United States, specifically racism in the government and the lack of ability of the counter-intelligence programs of the FBI. This song is a good example of protest, because like most Rage Against the Machine songs, it is a very intense, loud, angry song which calls for the listener to get enraged at the current situation and stand up and do something. It is an activation song, specifically calling people out to join their cause and spread awareness. During live performances, the band will play this song and take a break in the middle where the lead singer Zach de la Rocha will very dramatically and intensely recite a monologue pertinent to any current issue at hand. I believe this song does a great job of matching its message with the tone of the instrumentation. It gets people actively engaged in their music and as a result their intended message.
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3 comments:
I like how you connected the sound of the music to the artistic intent (intense, loud music makes audiences angry and want to make change). It's interesting how the human mind automatically associates certain feelings with specific genres and tempos of music. Nice observation.
I think the type of music behind a protest song really has a great impact on the impression it makes on its audience. Since the song is intense, loud and angry it draws those same feelings out of its audience that listens to the music. I think that it is important that you pointed this out.
As a Rage fan I've been continually impressed by the way that the band captures the energy and fury they have over the issues they protest. I also think its amazing that they have been able to continue being so active in protesting social issues as a band despite success in the music industry.
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