12 Modern Protest Songs to Listen to on the 4th of July
new-age protest soundtrack this July 4th, there’s no shortage of songs to choose from. In the current political climate, many Americans find it challenging to drum up enthusiasm for this holiday. The past several years have been marred by a series of troubling events and decisions that have left citizens feeling disillusioned and disheartened.
From Trump’s controversial military actions in Los Angeles to the mass ICE arrests that tear families apart, America has been facing a multitude of challenges that call into question the core values of the nation. The LGBTQ+ community has been targeted by discriminatory legislation, innocent federal workers have lost their jobs, and the ongoing atrocities in Palestine continue unabated. These are just a few examples of the many issues that have plagued the country in recent times.
Looking even further back, the overturning of Roe v. Wade by SCOTUS in 2023 marked a significant setback for abortion rights. The federal government’s mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and the unchecked use of police force against marginalized communities have further fueled discontent among the populace. Against this backdrop of systemic issues, it’s no wonder that many Americans are finding it difficult to muster any feelings of patriotism this July 4th.
However, in times of strife and uncertainty, music has always provided a powerful outlet for expressing dissent and resistance. Artists like Green Day, Rage Against The Machine, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Marvin Gaye, and The Supremes have all used their music to address political issues and advocate for social change. Whether it’s the anti-war anthems of the classic rock era or modern protest songs like YUNGBLUD’s “Machine Gun (F**k The NRA),” music has the ability to inspire and unite people in times of struggle.
If you’re in need of a soundtrack for your own protest this July 4th, look no further than these 12 new-age protest songs that capture the spirit of defiance and resilience. From songs that critique government policies to those that condemn social injustices, these tracks offer a poignant reminder of the power of music to challenge the status quo and amplify voices that are often silenced. So turn up the volume, let the music fill you with inspiration, and remember that you are not alone in your desire for a better, more just world.