Black American Songs That Speak to the Soul of the Nation

This year, America celebrates its semiquincentennial. However, Black Americans’ patriotism is still complicated. As our freedoms continue to be challenged by an administration determined to hold on to power at any cost, the fight continues.

In the playlist below, we highlight songs that honor the resilience of the Black American experience. From the Civil Rights movement to today, Black voices continue to shape the conscience of our culture.

Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing – James Weldon Johnson

Strange Fruit – Billie Holiday

A Change Is Gonna Come – Sam Cooke

To Be Young, Gifted and Black – Nina Simone

What’s Going On – Marvin Gaye

Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud – James Brown

War – Edwin Starr

Revolution Will Not Be Televised – Gil Scott-Heron

America – Prince & The Revolution

Fight The Power – Public Enemy

The Message – Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five

Changes – 2Pac

Alright – Kendrick Lamar

This Is America – Childish Gambino

Be Free – J. Cole

We The People… – A Tribe Called Quest

Freedom – Beyoncé

Glory – Common & John Legend