Anthem for a Revolution

Every Revolution needs an anthem. A few years ago I doubted the power the progressive movement could have when songs with political content could only get airplay on KPFA and underground radio. After the war in Iraq began, some of the leaders in popular music began to step up to the plate. Albums by Morrissey and Neil Young spoke openly and articulately against the war and against American empire. Just this month Michael Franti and Spearhead released an album called "Yell Fire" that could make a weary minister want to take to the streets. Critics have noted that it's not the most sophisticated political analysis, but really I don't want Noam Chomsky writing my hip-hop/raggae political anthems. The rhetoric of peace needs to be as clear and accessible as the rhetoric of war. It should feel groovy and powerful and make you want to dance. That's how a generation takes to the streets, integrating their political will into the very fabric of their lives.