The protests have died down, for the most part. But their effectiveness has been clear. Police reform has been sweeping across the country. Officers across the United States are being held accountable for their actions. Things aren’t perfect by any means. There’s still cops that aren’t in prison that should be. But progress is happening. Budget diversion from the police to other social services in major urban areas is on the table in many cities. Including: New York , Los Angeles, Seattle, Chicago and many other metropolis’ across the country. And while the pandemic is now making a major comeback, voices were heard to make a better day. And there has been little evidence to suggest that the protests are a contributing factor. Creating what is hopefully a doorway into a new era of equality and integrity. Here are the top five tracks to unite, inspire and work for a better tomorrow.
King’s X – Alright
While things may seem bleak now, they always come around. That’s the premise behind King’s X’s ‘Alright.’ One of the highlight tracks from their 2008 record ‘XV.’ It’s classic, hopeful track from the power trio. Mixed with their signature heavy yet melodic verses and sing along chorus’. There are also lyrics in the track that can be interpreted as referring to the Covid-19 crisis as well. A powerful track with a simple, yet powerful message.
Van Halen – Ballot or the Bullet
Who would have thought that a Van Halen track, particularly one from ‘Van Halen III,’ would ever hold any prominence with current affairs in 2020? That’s right, not one damn person. First off, Van Halen III is really underrated. With the exception of a few tracks. In fact, four of the songs are some of the best shit in their entire catalog. One of the four is a real barn burner called ‘Ballot or the Bullet.’ The aggressive track is Van Halen at their heaviest. And vocalist Gary Cherone brought some of his political lyrics with him upon joining the band. This year marks what is arguably the most important election in modern history. The ballot is more important than ever. ‘Ballot or the bullet, the choice is up to you.’ It’s up to the listener to take which direction they choose. VOTE!
Prong – Broken Peace
This downright funky, heavy and phat track is a perfect one for healing. It’s a boot straps themed song that seems more relevant than ever. And what’s cool about it is that it’s a broad scope lyrically. It can be applied to almost any situation where there is strife. While the infectious groove digs into the listeners skin for motivation. Right now this country needs to come together to ‘pick up the broken pieces.’ We’re hurting, but it’s become more clear than ever that we are going to have to bring change about ourselves. We can’t wait for others to do it for us.
Living Colour – History Lesson/Pride
Progress is about learning. An now is a time for learning. About our criminal justice system, about the systemic racism and about the identity of our country. Subjects that have always been a part of Living Colour’s lyrical direction. And they do it so effectively by having a great time with it. ‘Pride’ is a prime example of everything Living Colour. Sick groove, phat ass drums, intricate bass line and bad ass guitar riff. With perfectly match soulful vocals. Living Colour use their snarky, punk attitudes to get their point across to maximum effectiveness on this track. Particularly with the opening ‘History Lesson.’ It’s a track that sticks. Linking African American history to American history as a whole. Breaking down the barriers. And kicking ass while doing it.
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Power of Equality
This funky, rockin’, barn burner of a track opens ‘Blood, Sugar, Sex, Magic.’ And it’s a truly ‘red hot’ song from a period when the band’s music matched their name. The Chili Peppers rarely get political. But when they do they do it with passion and intensity. And ‘Power of Equality’ really hits home. Plus, it’s also one of the Chili’s most excellently rockin’ funk tracks. Chad Smith’s drums sound particularly kick ass on it. Plus, the cowbell during the solo bridge is a killer addition.
