Street argues that ‘music has symbolic force, it displays the power of language to create visions, articulate ideas and form bonds.’ Popular music has been used throughout history as a rallying force i.e. Bolsheviks used Communist music to galvanise support. More recently, Labour piggy-backed on the motivational lyrics of D-Ream’s ‘Things Can Only Get Better’ in their bid for office. Lyrics have the potential to influence thought and opinion.
Popular music’s potential to pose a political threat is also important to consider, when it becomes the expression of it’s wider political and social context. I.e. Billie Holiday’s ‘Strange Fruit’, condemning American racism was initially denounced in 1937 by Time Magazine as ‘a piece of propaganda’ for the advancement of black people. In 1999 the same magazine awarded ‘Strange Fruit’ the song of the century - testament to the progression of modern thoughts and values.
Popular music is good at raising awareness of areas which need political change and galvanising support, but in terms being the catalyst for direct political change - it’s not as successful.
This is rather nicely expressed.
ReplyDelete