“All we wanna do is take the chains off. All we wanna do is break the chains off. All we wanna do is be free.” – J. Cole
It’s time for change – a social and judicial change.
As the final grand jury decision to not indict Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson is beginning to settle in the minds of individuals who sought justice for 100+ days over the death of unarmed black teen Mike Brown, the nation has become plagued by unrest and anger.
With a historically volatile relationship between black civilians and cops still thriving 40 years post-Jim Crow, various musical artists of differing genres and backgrounds have made it their duty to empower the people through song – protest songs to be specific.
From North Carolina rapper J. Cole’s 2014 “Be Free” and Killer Mike’s “Pressure,” to Tupac Shakur’s “Changes” and Public Enemy’s “Fight The Power,” these songs were created in response to the unsettling plight of African-Americans throughout America’s dark history.
In a time where so many are looking for answers and explanations, we rounded up 34 of the most empowering, controversial, and peaceful protest songs ever.
We wish the citizens of Ferguson love and light.
Stream our “Protest Playlist” below.
PHOTO CREDIT: Getty
