It seems all anyone is listening to these days is the drumbeat of war. And if you listen to enough country radio, you just might be convinced to support this war on Iraq. First came Toby Keith’s “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” a song that turned air raids into a beer-drinkin’ sing-a-long. Now, Darryl Worley’s “Have You Forgotten?” justifies action on Iraq based on the events of 9/11. I’m sure it will sell millions.
Of course, no one is surprised at the blind patriotism of the country music industry; who really wants to hear Shania or Garth sing about social conscience? Luckily, the architects of rock ‘n’ roll have left us enough songs of peace, protest and rebellion to sustain us through a long nuclear winter. So, for God’s sake, turn off Fox News and tune in to these songs of warning and resistance.
Yo La Tengo
“Nuclear War”
This remake of Sun Ra’s “Nuclear War” was recorded in light of impending military actions, and its simple mantra (“Nuclear war / It’s a motherf***er”) says about all that needs to be said about the subject. Yo La Tengo recorded several versions of this song, the best of which features a children’s choir singing call-and-response vocals, curse words and all.
R.E.M.
“World Leader Pretend”
This song is not about George W. Bush specifically, but the lyrics of a self-possessed, self-righteous protagonist seem to fit so well. Michael Stipe may have been singing about himself when he said, “I have been given the freedom to do as I see fit,” but it sounds eerily similar to our President’s modus operandi.
The Kinks
“Some Mother’s Son”
Lest we forget about the human cost of war, Ray Davies reminds us in this beautifully morose song. A mother’s son goes to war, leaving nothing but his picture in a frame and leaving his youth and innocence on the battlefield. Of course, “all dead soldiers look the same,” and only memory remains.
The Clash
“Know Your Rights”
Ever the vigilant rock group, The Clash offer their public service announcement, reminding the public that the right to life, health and freedom are rights that are routinely withheld by the government and aristocracy. Know your rights and hold on to them dearly.
Elvis Costello
“(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding”
Costello may have meant “Peace, Love and Understanding” to be ironic, but it’s one of the few protest songs that appeals to the basic human level. Really, what is so funny about being civil to other people, about respecting human rights and about resisting the urge to kill? So earnest it might make you cry.
Curtis Mayfield
“If There’s a Hell Below We’re All Going to Go”
Finally, a true approximation of what should happen to a human race that treats its brethren like garbage. Though it was written about Nixon’s administration, drug dealers and racism, the message is as true as ever now. Though Mayfield’s vision is dire and serious, the tune is still funky and adroitly arranged, making the prospect of going to hell a little more inviting.
