Modern Day Songs that Reflect the Injustice System and Black Lives Matter Movement

There's a lot going on in the world right now regarding racism and the unfair treatment of the black community. Many are standing up for their rights through protests, donations, music, and posts related to blackout Tuesday. In addition to what's going on right now, there are many people who do not understand the circumstances that black people are going through right now. Most people can't understand the pain and hurt the black community is experiencing. However, as a young black girl, I understand and for those who don't understand I'd like to help. I believe in the power of music and how it can change things. With that being said, I have offered a playlist below of amazing songs that reflect what the black community is experiencing in this time.

Black Man by T.I ft Quavo, Meek Mill, and Rara

‘Black Man’ was released in 2016 on the album ‘US or Else’ by rapper T.I. The song greatly expresses the pain of black men and what many of them go through while being a citizen of America. In fact, the entire album is dedicated to America and their system that labels black people as a threat. The great significance in this album is the cover, which displays the American flag inside of it. If those in charge and close to the system were to listen to the album it would definitely be a wake up call for them.

This is American by Childish Gambino

This 11 time award winning song was America's favorite. The video was valued even more by the people due to its references to America's broken system. The video and song called out America on, not all, but most of its problems. All of America's issues from white supremacy to greed and money are reflected in this song. One of the most loved parts of the video is when choir members are violently riddled with bullets. This part is references an event where a white male entered church killing several of its members. The video closes with the artist suggesting that America owes him. The amazing song definitely held America accountable for its wrong doings.

Black America Again by Common ft. Stevie Wonder

This song is very significant due to its poetic rap and promising lyrics. The song starts off with lyrics expressing the frustration that Trayvon Martin will never grow to be an adult. If you are unaware of that name, you should definitely do some research! The artist, Common, is known for his hard core rap and flow of lyrics. His voice greatly feeds the song's pain and feelings, while he begs for justice for the black community. Throughout the song, he does a good job of explaining why the black community protests and expresses their feelings about the social injustices they endure.

For My People by Joey Bada$$

‘For my People’ is an amazing song full of empathy and feelings. It is a message from one black person to the rest in the community which makes it so great. Joey talks about what America and the system does wrong. In addition to that, he tells his “people” what to do in trying times and situations where they are not cared for. Joey bada$$ did a phenomenal job with the song and the entire album in fact. His entire album is also dedicated to the issues within America.

No Justice by Ty Dolla $ign

This song and video are both something that people against the black lives matter movement should see. The video shows clips of black people being harmed and pictures of those who have been killed by white cops. The singers verbalize throughout the song saying the lyrics “It's like this shit is getting worse before it's getting better.” These words suggest that the issues mentioned have been going on for quite some time and will continue until something changes within the system. The song is very heartfelt and catchy as well.

Police Get Away with Murder by YG

‘Police Get away with murder’ isn't this rappers first song that goes against the unfair treatment the black community experiences. YG has several songs that stand up for him and his people. He is also very well-known for always speaking his mind so it's not surprising coming from the talented rapper. The love for his people and the demand of equality in his music is inspiring. The song, among others, will definitely change the hearts and minds of those who don't understand.

Chains by Usher

The song ‘Chains’ starts off amazing within its first second. It begins with a voice stating a few words of Americas ‘Pledge of Allegiance'. The song goes on to compare the lack of freedom colored people have to ‘Chains’. The three artists also go on to repeat the word shooting and mention how they are “tired of running.”

Might not be ok by Kenneth Whalum ft. Big K.R.I.T

This slow and heartfelt song is filled with nothing but bars about how cops treat people of color. The chorus says “I won't tell you that it's gonna be ok” indicating that the issues are ongoing and may not ever be ok. Furthermore, Big K.R.I.T. even mentions someone's knee in the neck, which is very significant to the world right now. Although the song was written years ago, the reference makes even more sense as it relates to the death of our black brother, George Floyd. The rapper continues to walk us through the steps of how black men are typically racially profiled and arrested by cops and the judicial system, while expressing how unfair and cruel this is.

16 Shots by Vic Mensa

This song by Vic Mensa expresses his anger with the police in a very different way. He starts by mentioning how everything is recorded, however, justice is still not served. He also continues by mentioning two situations in which the cops have failed us. His anger is expressed during the chorus where he says “f*** 12”. He ends the song with a recording of a male describing an altercation between police and a black man. Vic Mensa also is not one to hold his tongue and it is greatly shown during the song.

Defying Gravity by Todrick

Defying Gravity is a song by Todrick that speaks to all races of people about the injustice that goes on in the world. However, this isn't the only song Todrick has about these issues. In fact, his entire film ‘Straight Outta OZ’ was about his life and issues revolving racism. The song starts off by referring to police as cowards and suggests that the world could use some “love and lord”. The lyrics are beyond positive and an expression of the pain the black community feels when loved ones are taken. Todrick continues to use his platform to speak up about the problems within our society.

In addition to these songs that spread a message, I have a message for you. I encourage you to do all you can to contribute to making the world a better place for all citizens of America. Think about what you can do with your talent to make the world a better place. It is important to uplift people of all colors and ethnicity. During this time, there is a lot you can do to help. For starters, you can sign the many petitions set up to help those in the black community. You can also do so by uplifting or checking on your friends of color. Times like these can be very challenging for them so send them some love and positivity.

Thanks, XOXO Kierstyn A.