Choose a song of your choice that you feel qualifies as an example of modern “protest music.” Explain
why you feel this song fits the criteria of being a “protest music.” Then, compare and/or contrast this song with
some of the music that we have discussed from earlier protest movements in the United States. Discuss how
you see this modern protest song as continuing the legacy of earlier protest music in America.
Guidelines:
You must use Chicago style citations (footnotes and a bibliography page) in order to cite your sources. We are
using Notes-Bibliography style. You do not need to include footnotes when you are referencing your chosen
song. Any other evidence or material taken from any source (including other songs) must include a footnote
and entry in the bibliography page!
Essays must be at least 650 words (not including your footnotes/bibliography!). Put the word count in the top
right hand corner of your paper beneath your name and date.
Essays should be in Times New Roman font, double spaced, and have one inch margins.
Your essay must include a discussion of at least three of the following songs as they relate to your chosen
song: (these are the songs we talked about in class)
“Lift Every Voice and Sing” by James Weldon Johnson (1899) – Lyrics
“Strange Fruit” by Billie Holiday (1939) – Lyrics
“Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan (1962) – Lyrics
“Mississippi Goddam” by Nina Simone (1964) – Lyrics
“A Change is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke (1964) – Lyrics
“Here’s to the State of Mississippi” by Phil Ochs (1965) – Lyrics
“A Long Walk to D.C.” by The Staple Singers (1968) – Lyrics
“Say it Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” by James Brown (1968) – Lyrics
“What’s Going On?” by Marvin Gaye (1971) – Lyrics
“The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five (1982) – Lyrics
“Fight The Power” by Public Enemy (1989) – Lyrics
“Changes” by 2Pac feat. Talent (1992) – Lyrics
“U.N.I.T.Y.” by Queen Latifah (1993) – Lyrics
“Sound of da Police” by KRS-One (1993) – Lyrics
“Mathematics” by Mos Def (1999) – Lyrics
Your chosen song must have been released within the last 10 years (2010 or later). You cannot choose
“Alright” by Kendrick Lamar.
Sample Solution
