February 20th 2025.
Music has always been an important part of Black history, serving as a source of inspiration for generations to feel proud of themselves and their accomplishments. Some songs have even become anthems, kickstarting movements and bringing people together. Black music not only expresses joy and pride, but it has also been used to unite military troops and fight against injustice. In celebration of Black art, history, and pride, BLACK ENTERPRISE has curated a playlist of eight powerful Black songs.
1) “I” by Kendrick Lamar is a powerful song released in 2014 as the lead single for his Grammy-winning album To Pimp A Butterfly. This song resonates during Black History Month as it speaks to reclaiming one's power and finding self-love in the face of oppression. The lyrics, “Dreams of reality's peace, blow steam in the face of the beast” remind listeners to stay strong and keep smiling in the face of adversity.
2) James Brown's “Say It Loud, I'm Black and I'm Proud” was released in 1968, the same year as the Civil Rights Act. This iconic record continues to inspire with its message of empowerment for Black people to have pride in their race, dignity, and self-respect, even in the face of adversity. The lyrics, “We're people, we're like the birds and the bees, we'd rather die on our feet than be living on our knees” reflect the strength and resilience of the Black community.
3) Public Enemy's “Fight the Power” was released in 1989 and became the title track for Spike Lee's movie Do the Right Thing. This protest song celebrates Black resilience and resistance, urging people to fight against systemic racism, police brutality, and injustice. The lyrics, “Elvis was a hero to most, but he never meant sh*t to me… M*therf*ck him and John Wayne!” boldly call out the racism and inequality faced by Black Americans.
4) Aretha Franklin's “Respect” was released in 1967 during the Civil Rights era and the Women's Rights Movement. The song became an anthem for Black folks, particularly Black women, demanding respect and knowing their worth. The lyrics, “I get tired, keep on tryin', you're runnin' out of fools, and I ain't lyin'” speak to the struggle for equality and the determination to keep fighting.
5) “Lift Every Voice and Sing” was written in 1900 and was later embraced as the National Negro Anthem by the NAACP. Its roots in the civil rights movement make it a powerful piece of Black history. The lyrics, “Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, sing a song full of the hope that the present has bought us” reflect the resilience and hope of the Black community.
6) Tupac Shakur's “Keep Ya Head Up” was released in 1993 and caught the hip-hop community by surprise with its positive messaging towards Black women. The song promotes Black unity, self-love, and perseverance, reminding listeners to stay strong in the face of adversity. The lyrics, “I remember Marvin Gaye used to sing to me, he had me feelin' like black was the thing to be” pay tribute to the influential Black artists who have paved the way for future generations.
7) “A Change is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke was released in 1964 during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. The soulful song speaks to the hope for change and a better future for Black Americans. The lyrics, “It's been too hard livin', but I'm afraid to die, 'cause I don't know what's up there beyond the sky” reflect the struggle for equality and the desire for a better tomorrow.
8) Jamaican icons Bob Marley and Peter Tosh released “Get Up, Stand Up” in 1973 as a protest song against oppression. The lyrics, “Get up, stand up, don't give up the fight” serve as a call to action for people to stand up against injustice and fight for their rights. This song resonates with Black Americans who have also faced struggles and oppression throughout history.
In conclusion, these eight Black songs have made a significant impact on Black art, history, and pride. They continue to inspire and unite people, reminding us of the strength, resilience, and determination of the Black community. As we celebrate Black History Month, let us remember the powerful messages and stories behind these iconic songs.
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