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Are you a music fan? Does music inspire you to work for change?
If so, then we hope you'll join Echoing Green’s first-ever website mix tape contest for a chance to win a 4GB iPod nano (and lots of love from us).
We’re looking for creative mixing that broadly interprets our theme of “Bold Songs.” We want to hear the songs that truly inspire and motivate you to build a more equitable world.
To (hopefully) make this even more of an alluring proposition, the winning entry will receive a brand new 4GB iPod nano as a contest prize. Cool, no?
Prepare a list of your songs (artist and title) OR a digital mix tape of your favorite “Bold Songs.” Your mix should contain eight to ten tracks that motivate you to make the world a better place. We recommend that you make your mix using either of the following free services:
I’ve prepared a sample entry in the comments below. We can’t wait to listen to what you come up with!
Submit your mix by September 12th at 5pm EST by leaving a comment on this blog post (below) with a link to your digital mix tape OR simply leave a comment containing a list of your songs (artist and title). Your comment must also contain a short statement about why you chose these songs. Additionally, entries with profanity or hate speech will be disqualified. All entries that meet these criteria will be entered into a contest for a 4GB iPod nano. Entries will be judged on their creativity and theme by a panel of Echoing Green staffers. The winner will be announced on September 15th at 5pm EST. The winner will have thirty days to claim their iPod prize. The contest is open to anyone except for Echoing Green staff and our beloved family members (and former staff/interns and their family members, etc). Questions? Email me at anthony@echoinggreen.org
UPDATE 9/13/2008 - The contest is officially closed, but we're leaving the comments open. Feel free to post a new mix to add to the collection.
UPDATE 9/19/2008 - The conest has a winner! Check out the announcement blog post.
(Required fields are bold)
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Comments
Too late - Music for your Soul
http://8tracks.com/peetjahbee/bold-songs-peetjahbees-mix
Bob Marley, Lauryn Hill, Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, Roy Ayers, Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder and Matisyahu.
Top Tunes
This is a great place to start mixing your own tunes, are you likely to run another competition? I ask as it really does encourage some outstanding talent to start mixing.
Competitions
There are always music and MC competitions around, just Google it. But I found this is by far the best, the online community is very awake here and provide great information.
Making music
These are great mixes, excellent for bringing one back into the happy zone after being depressed. I am impressed with the amount of raw talent out there, you guys should do this as a profession. I've been trying to make music for ages and I can never get it right. When starting out I find my song is OK but then i get bored of the way it sounds and want to start anew :S.
Cheers.
Music
Great music always lifts the soul and lets you escape from your troubles, even for a short time.
Marcus > When your making a mix remember to only judge whether or not you like your song once its finished. Many new amateur DJs and MCs find it hard to keep at it when they get bored of hearing the same loop or instrument over and over again. This is an unavoidable part of making music in this way. You cant have a house without first building the foundation and basic elements.
Often the drums are your foundation, they set the pace and feel of the song. Its usually the best starting point.
Good luck.
Making...
Hey Steven thanks for the tips, I'm sure many of us appreciate your insight as i certainly do. Eager to hear more of your advice if you would care to comment back?
I suffer from the problem you mentioned, get bored to fast hehe. The few songs I've made have taken me days when i have a friend who can make about 5 a day with that blasted ejay haha.
Patience required :)
The key is patience my friend, like with any artwork, you must take your time. Hit singles can take a month to make and they have about 10 people working on it, if you find yourself getting bored of your tunes/beats, stop. Do something else then maybe come back to your mix a day later or when you've forgotten what it sounds like. This way it will stay fresh for you and you can add to it, during the days off you may get more ideas for your song.
Patience?
This is true, however i do have to say that frame of mind comes into effect.
You need to set yourselve deadlines Jason just like one would at university. Everyone has down days however if for instance you forget about it and come back in a month your initial inspiration will have vacated.
Keep revisiting the songs every day, even for a short period of time.
;)
And what is the music genre
And what is the music genre that should be used? Anything is ok? I have one but not sure if it fits.
Any Genre!
Classical, classic rock, jazz, modern, whatever!
Sorry I'm too late for the contest!
I've used this playlist in a sociology course on social change & social movements:
--"Joe Hill," recorded by Pete Seeger
--"Solidarity Forever," recorded by Pete Seeger
"Bread and Roses," written by James Oppenheimer, recorded by Judy Collins
-We Shall Overcome
-"Strange Fruit," by Billie Holliday
--"Chicago," by Crosby Stills Nash and Young
--"For What It's Worth," by Buffalo Springfield
--"Give Peace a Chance," by John Lennon
--"Whose War?" by Sarah Jones
--"Dear Mr. President," by Pink
--"When the President Talks to G-d," by Bright Eyes
BOLD SONGS: It's a New Day
I just found out about this contest late this afternoon but wanted to weigh in with this funky mix. Bold is believing that no matter how long and dark the night, a new day will dawn. This mix has a hopeful arch, beginning and ending with new beginnings and better days. That's not to say that change comes easy and Cymande is there half way through to remind us it's gonna be a struggle on a "Mighty Heavy Load." The relentlessly hopeful voices of Curtis Mayfield and the Staple Singers refuse to let us tire, pushing the mix through to the dawn. The personal motivation of individuals is crucial first step in creating change, a notion represented here by Bobby Byrd singing, "I'm on the move, ain't gonna let nobody stop me, I'm on the way up!" More importantly is the power of the many and the strength of the collective is represented on the mix by songs like Yes We Can, We'll Get Over and We're a Winner. Finally, this is simply great music. Enjoy!
TRACKLIST:
1. It's a New Day - Skull Snaps
2. Yes We Can - Lee Dorsey
3. I'm on the Move - Bobby Byrd
4. Mighty Heavy Load - Cymande
5. We'll Get Over - The Staple Singers
6. We're a Winner - Curtis Mayfield & the Impressions
7. We Got to Live Together - Buddy Miles
8. A New Day - The Notations
BOLD BLENDS 2008: Size Venti.
We all know that a journey begins with a simple step, yet we often fail to take that first step.
Bold Blends 2008 is created to inspire, to empower, and to actuate your dreams for transforming our breathing spaces into a more equitable world.
Bold Blends 2008 functions as my morning expresso. This is the soundtrack I play, when applying for grants, reaching out to sponsors, and further fleshing out my dreams. This is the soundtrack I play, when close acquaintances render my dreams futile. This is the soundtrack I play, when internal doubt clouds my vision.
May our dreams come into fruition.
Let's take the first sip.
(1) Goapele, Closer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkRSMaCjCjw
(2) Michael Jackson, Man in the Mirror
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQm4XXEgZoY
(3) Robin Thicke, Can You Believe
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aaGDX13SAko
(4) Yael Naim, New Soul
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCrZzj7QSos
(5) Jordin Sparks, One Step at a Time
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISXi-qgq_FA
(6) Martina McBride, Broken Wing
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sfpc3wfueo
(7) Les Nubians, Makeda
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22HL5ZOOHGI
(8) Erykah Badu, Time's A Wastin'
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1C6qktSNJQU
Bold songs
These are songs that inspire me to push further than I thought I could, both in my work and on the running trails. It's amazing to me that music can make you feel different physically. Each of these songs makes me want to move and sing, no matter how worn out I'm feeling.
The first 2 tracks are about the loving, just future we're all working for:
1. Avuleikile Amasango/One Love by Soweto Gospel Choir
2. I'll Take You There
The next 4 tracks are about facing internal and external doubts about being yourself and the possibility of that beautiful future:
3. Jesus Rode a Bike by Jason Molin
4. The Challenge by Suzannah Choffel
5. Cleva by Erykah Badu
6. Stay Human (All the Freaky People) by Michael Franti and Spearhead
The last 2 tracks are assurances that, even though the road is hard, the goal is worth it.
7. Peace Train by Cat Stevens
8. Higher Ground by Stevie Wonder
Growing Up Bold
I know I’m not eligible, but I wanted to put in my own creative mix of songs (sorry I couldn’t get the mp3s to upload). Enjoy :)
Being bold doesn’t have to begin in adulthood. Embedded in children’s movies (especially Disney movies) are messages that teach kids to be courageous and to fight for what they believe is right. I loved Disney movies as a kid and these were some of my favorite "be bold" songs.
1. "Seize the Day" - The Newsies
2. "You Can Fly! You Can Fly! You Can Fly!" - Peter Pan
3. "A Star is Born" - Hercules
4. "I'll Make A Man Out Of You" - Mulan
5. "Colors of the Wind" - Pocahontas
6. "Go The Distance" - Hercules
7. "Reflection" - Mulan
8. "Circle of Life" - The Lion King
Two Bold Mixes
The first mix, below, is my official entry. When any of these songs come on, they never fail to make me stop and think about the world. They also inspire me to think outside the box and do something different. About half of them represent very strong departures from the normal fare the artist offers. (Two slow Rush songs?!) The aural jolt when they come on, out of character, makes me take notice and think about how I can similarly do something different in order to get people to listen.
These ten songs focus on self, people and the power of one person alone or as part of a movement. It's not meant to rally the troops, as it were, but rather inspire introspection and reflection on how we can all make the world a better place. The epitome of change is Dispatch's General who stands on the battlefield, reevaluates life and dismisses his troops.
With that out of the way, I couldn't ignore the fantastic songs in this next mix. I don't think any of the few instances of profanity (less than five in the eight songs) are used inappropriately, but rather as a reflection of the frustration and anger one feels when confronting age-old societal issues. However, I imagine it will be disqualified. I had to share it anyway. As Gordon said early on, that's kind of what this is all about.
This is a beat-heavy mix to rally the troops. It will uncover all of one's suppressed rage and rile desires to challenge the status quo. It's got an unexpected ending that I've tossed that in because I've always loved it and think it's message is a fitting close. Kind of like the other seven songs are the period when a racer is in the blocks getting psyched up and the conclusion is the starter's pistol.
Lastly, the submissions really skyrocketed in the last 24 hours. I'm guessing you all were spending time refining your mixes. Thanks for the effort. I look forward to checking them all out.
BOLD SONGS: Wanna Be Startin' Something
A musical journey of self-empowerment designed to motivate you to take a closer look at the world we live in, define our own personal passions and commitments and ultimately to make the world a better place.
1. Michael Jackson - Wanna Be Startin' Something
A call to action to commit to what you stand for whatever it may be
2. Ray Barretto - Together
Uplifting and unifying Latin-Funk anthem from the streets of Harlem, NYC
3. Della Reese - Compared To What
Great cover of the Les McCann/Eugene McDaniels song that was made even more famous by Roberta Flack. This song challenges you to really try and understand the world we live in and make personal decisions that are true to ourselves.
4. Sergio Mendes & Brazil '66 - For What It's Worth
Another cover, this time of Buffalo Springfield. Sometimes hearing an oldie but goodie in a different version lets you listen to the words as if they were new.
5. Dr. John - Patriotic Flag Waiver
Ironic or straight-shooting? Either way, Dr. John reminds us that our personal convictions and affiliations are entirely unique and may embody contradictions.
6. Marvin Gaye - You're The Man, Part 1
Single-only release from Marvin challenging listeners and politicians to "talk to the people" and get involved in our community.
7. Smokey Robinson - Just My Soul Responding
Smokey's most political song and another personal statement about how to live in the world and make it a better place.
8. Richie Havens - Going Back to My Roots
Yet another cover, this one originally by Motown producer/songwriter and solo artist, Lamont Dozier. Richie's legacy as a voice for the marginalized and disenfranchised makes this song a great fit for him with his highly individual style and the song's message of inward searching to make yourself a better person.
9. The Beach Boys - Long Promised Road
The only non-Soul song on here, but penned by brother Carl Wilson who was always the most "soulful" in his writing and performing. This is one of the most empowering and motivational songs I've heard.
10. Stevie Wonder - Heaven is 10 Zillion Light Years Away
One of my all-time favorite Stevie songs. I love his metaphor of the soul as the universe where the outward journey our society needs to make to improve our world is really just the same as the inward journey we all need to make to realize our individual goodness and righteousness.
Change can start small.
I'm having issues with 8track, sadly, so this is just a list. These songs have a lot to do with my belief that social change can start as a mindshift on an individual level: re-examining the way in which we treat other people. Accepting that you are part of something larger and that your actions make a difference beyond what you can see directly brings about the realization that small actions and attitudes can have a huge effect. So, some of these songs are about big movements, some are about huge problems, some are about the things we have in common, and some are about little expressions of love and respect. Enjoy.
Zero 7 (Featureing Sia) - Somersault
K-OS - Sunday Morning
Blonde Redhead - 23
Weekend Players - Pursuit of Happiness
Kris Delmhorst - Moscow Song
Lupe Fiasco - Little Weapon
Santogold - You’ll Find a Way (Switch and Sinden Remix)
Damian "Junior Gong" Marley - Road to Zion
My Bold Songs for Change
My tracks are mostly R&B/Soul with a few surprises I added. You can find my iMix here: http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=291015965
1. Sam Cooke - A Change Is Gonna Come
A bit old school, but the emotion in his voice makes me believe that great things really are ahead in the near future.
2. Nikka Costa - Everybody Got Their Something
I love that this song talks about how everyone has that special talent that they can use to make their mark on the world.
3. Dave Matthews Band - Everyday
The part where he sings about jumping in the mud and getting dirty I feel is a metaphor for the work that goes on at the community level for social change. Sometimes you just have to jump in and start helping where you can.
4. Lauryn Hill - Everything Is Everything
This song comes from one of my favorite albums. It just helps put things in perspective when facing challenges.
5. Celia Cruz - La Vida Es Un Carnaval
This salsa song by one of the most premier singer of the genre never fails to put me in a good mood. Here's a loose translation of what the chorus says for the non-Spanish speaker.
You don't have to cry
Life is a carnival
It is more beautiful to live singing
You don't have to cry
Life is a carnival
The pain leaves singing
6. Nneka - The Uncomfortable Truth
From the chorus: "Let us make a change/Why can't we turn the page?"
7. War - Why Can't We Be Friends
I have loved this song since I was a child because for some reason I thought it was especially amusing. I do think it is particularly apt for thinking about the possibility for peace.
8. Mary J Blige - Work That
This song is perfect for that moment when I doubt myself and my approach to bringing about social change. Just because everyone has done a particular task the same way for some time, that does not mean that you should approach it the same way. It's a great songs for entrepreneurs when they encounter resistance to their ideas.
9. Jimmy Cliff - You Can Get It If You Really Want
I think the song title says it all.
10. Des'ree - You Gotta Be
With well-written positive lyrics, this song seems to find its way into my recently played list off and on.
BOLD COLORS MIX
*Straight To Hell, The Clash
*United States, Seize The Day
*Uncomfortable Truth, Nneka
*2080, Yeasayer
*No Rest For The Weary, Blue Scholars
*The Price of Oil, Billy Bragg
*Weya, Manu Dibango
*Unlike Me, Kate Havnevik
other songs not on player but should be added to mix:
*Naam, Christy Azuma & Uppers International
*Strugglin, K'Naan
*The Clockwise Witness, Devotchka
thank you. *support local and global undergroundindependent artiststs*
"Bold" is a child gazing out the window at a world yet unknown
The word bold to me conjures the innocence of a child. The power behind a child's stare never ceases to amaze me. Therefore, the songs i chose for this mix reflect that sentiment in one way or another, and i tried to arrange them just so.
1. Phone Call - Jon Brion
This is possibly the most beautiful 60 seconds of music ever composed. Musically, it reassures me that "everything is okay. everything is beautiful."
2. Le Compteur - Karkwa
I can't say understand the lyrics to this song, but I can almost imagine exactly what they might be just by listening to the music. The song has such an innocent melody, yet the structure is so adventurous and uplifting.
3. 3rd Planet - Modest Mouse
lol I didn't mean for this to be the 3rd track but it just worked out that way. This song is sort of an anthem for me, and i love the lyrics during the chorus: "your heart felt good", like mother nature welcoming the human race to earth.
4. Did You See The Words - Animal Collective
This track might just be my favorite one by animal collective. it has a tendency to explode into rapture when you least expect it.
5. Person Person - Mirah
Mirah has a lovely voice that has a very innocent quality to it. That combined with the double tracked vocals and the positive lyrics make this song very enjoyable.
6. Glósóli - Sigur Rós
This is the one its all about. The tension builds so steadily until you almost can't handle it anymore, and then theres this great release and you lose yourself in the moment. I'd recommend looking up the video for this if you get the chance. it'll change your life.
7. Over The Hills And Far Away - Led Zeppelin
One of the best songs ever written by one of the best bands ever.
8. Because - Elliott Smith
This cover leaves me stunned every time I hear it. Elliott Smith is my favorite artist, and I think he did such an outstanding job on this track. I know its hard to say that a beatles cover is better than the original, but that just might be the case here.
9. Highschool Lover - Air
A beautiful recording that embodies the spirit of this mix and serves as a great closer.
A Bold and Inspiring Mix
Over The Rainbow - Judy Garland
More Than This - Peter Gabriel
Skating Away - Jethro Tull
Trick of the Tail - Genesis
We The Children - Parachute Express
I Can’t Keep It In - Cat Stevens
Shower The People - James Taylor
In Your Eyes - Peter Gabriel w/Youssou N'Dour
Biko - Peter Gabriel
Putting Judy Garland, Peter Gabriel, James Taylor, Jethro Tull and Parachute Express on the same playlist, that’s bold…
I challenge anyone to listen to We The Children (you can find it on Rhapsody) without at least welling up. It should be the national anthem of the next generation. Or, Trick of the Tail without tapping your toe along with the easy tune hiding a deeper message. Listen to the songs and read the lyrics and be inspired, uplifted and emboldened. The largely positive flavor of the music reflects the fact that I think, however bold, to be a part of a positive change, inspired movement should, indeed must, come from a positive place of hope and opportunity. In spite of the realization that there are a myriad of negative, challenging and disillusioning truths that point toward the need for bold, expedited and lasting change, effective change-making is elevated and powered by positive energy and a full heart. Indeed, energy is an oft-unmentioned requirement of change-making. The songs chosen have physically and emotionally energized me throughout different stages of my life. I’ll be glad to have a full playlist of songs to both inspire and energize me in my change-making efforts at this point in my life and beyond.
Why two Peter Gabriel songs? Because he is Peter Gabriel, a changemaker from way back, a bright light that I was too young to follow with action, but the message was there, the seeds of change. All these years later, I can still picture Peter Gabriel attempting, struggling, to dance with Youssou N'Dour at the beginning of his 1986 tour in Worcester, MA, and, months later, dancing alongside the vibrant troupe as the tour returned to Massachusetts for another stop. From my front row seats (score!), I could see the connection, and mutual respect, the brotherhood of man, the laughter in the eyes of Gabriel and N'Dour and their blended bands of musicians and dancers as they joyfully shared the stage. This is just one lasting image in my mind of how music transcends differences and inspires the best in people, whatever their heritage, their history or their homeland.
How do I explain the choice of the song Biko at the end of my self-described uplifting playlist? It grounds the play list in truth and reality, highlighting for me that it is not okay to turn a blind eye on the truth because it may somehow upset the daily happiness that we seek and want for our children. Peter Gabriel ended every concert with this short but powerful song. After singing the final words of the song “and the eyes of the world are watching now,“ Gabriel would state, “The rest is up to you…” and he would leave the stage as the crowd sang on. It was sobering yet uplifting in a way that only music can be. Most importantly, Gabriel used Biko to illustrate the power that exists in the exposure of the truth and the power and responsibility that the citizens of the world hold to “be the change.”
Regardless of who wins an IPOD, the ultimate music list should, of course, reflect Echoing Green’s mission with the positive vibe that inspiring music literally carries, with room for a few of the more compelling and sobering tunes. Mix it up, choose the best from the lists… I haven’t looked at them yet but I’m guessing that the truly best song list would be a select compilation of the compilations, acknowledging the strength that comes when many good heads come together from different perspectives and backgrounds but with the same ultimate goal, even when the goal is something as simple as an inspiring play list. How’s that for bold?!
Thanks for this opportunity for some inspired fun! What a great excuse for a break from the usual!
Another Peter Gabriel
He was a close runner up on my mix with Don't Give Up off of Secret World Live.
My Echoing Green Mix
I love this contest. My friend Kiff Gallagher's motto is "Music Saves Lives". It also shapes lives. Last year, I created a soundtrack for my organization, and it has really framed how we collectively think - and feel - about our work. Now, the concept of a company soundtrack has become part of our culture and folks regularly pitch songs that capture a key moment (e.g. "Can’t Get it Right Today" by Joe Purdy) or phase of our project ("Gonna Fly Now” by Bill Conti – Theme from Rocky). Good stuff.
The following soundtrack is inspired by my experience starting a social change organization:
1. Everyday People by Taj Mahal
2. The Underdog (Bonus Track Version) by Spoon
3. Can't Stop This Feeling I Got by Prince
4. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' by Michael Jackson
5. A Little Less Conversation (JXL Radio Edit) by Elvis Presley
6. I Won't Back Down by Tom Petty
7. Ever Present Past by Paul McCartney
8. Learning to Fly by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
EVERYDAY PEOPLE
About two years ago, I was at a friend's 40th birthday weekend. Guitars and 1980's sountracks came out of the woodwork, and suddenly we were singing Everyday People. I had never really paid attention to the words when I was a kid. Turns out it is perfect for the work I do integrating people with disabilities into the mainstream community and it is now an anthem of sorts:
Key Lyrics:
"We got to live together
I am no better and neither are you
We are the same whatever we do
You love me you hate me you know me and then
You can't figure out the bag l'm in
I am everyday people, yeah yeah"
THE UNDERDOG
I choose this song because underdogs make the world go round.
Key Lyrics:
“You got no fear of the underdog,
that’s why you will not survive!”
CAN’T STOP THIS FEELING I GOT
I choose this song in honor of my friends & family who have endured my endless chatter about my work…
Key Lyrics:
“I can't stop this feeling I got
U know I can't sleep at night
I can't stop, U know I love it a lot
I'm talking about an everlasting light
I can't stop this feeling I got
I get 2 shakin' all in my shoes
I can't stop feeling I got
The doctor say there's nothing that he can do”
WANNA BE STARTIN’ SOMETHING
Self explanatory.
Key Lyrics: “I said you wanna be startin’ somethin, you got to be startin’ somethin”
A LITTLE LESS CONVERSATION (JXL Radio Edit)
This song is the ring on my cell phone. It reminds me to make sure conversation turns into action.
Key Lyrics: “A little less conversation, a little more action”
I WON’T BACK DOWN
Key Lyrics:
"Well I know what’s right, I got just one life
In a world that keeps on pushin’ me around
But I’ll stand my ground and I won’t back down."
EVER PRESENT PAST
I dedicate this song to my dedicated husband...especially during our start-up phase...!
Key Lyric: “I’ve got too much on my plate…don’t got no time to be a decent lover.”
LEARNING TO FLY
Key Lyric: “I’m learning to fly but I ain’t got wings.”
Turns out other people are my wings.
Songs that Echo
For me, change means doing something unique because the usual isn't working. In assigning music to this idea, care is in order: a blithe, sugary song here, a trite, preachy song there, and before you know it dull music represents a bold concept. Change bucks the status quo. It is smart, thoughtful and inspiring. It is anything but ordinary. These 9 fit that bill.
1. "Vapour Trail," By Josh Ritter. This song appears on the The Cake Sale benefit compilation, which is without question one of the best ever put together. The song speaks best for itself, "These white tufts, of your vapour trail, have sprouted and taken root..."
2. "Surgery" by Scott Matthew is a lighter number, arguing that he needs "Liiiiiiiiife saving surgery" to fix him up.
3. "There Goes the Fear," Doves. This song is about being scared to act, and life passing by in the meantime. "There goes the fear again, let it goooo..."
4. "Against Th'Law," Billy Bragg & Wilco. This song comes from Vol. 2 of the Mermaid Avenue Sessions, in which Billy Bragg, Natalie Merchant, Wilco and others cover songs that Woodie Guthrie wrote but never recorded. Its lyrics speak best, "It's against th'law to eat, against th'law to drink, against th'law to worry, against th'law to think..."
5. "Freedom," Amos Lee. Again, the song speaks best, "Freedom is seldom found, by beating someone to the ground..."
6. "Penitentiary," Citizen Cope. "Well I'm waitin' on a time when the people walk free to see, from the penitentiary in our mind..."
7. "The Breeze," Dr. Dog. This uppity little number is about something that many who are seeking change have a hard time doing: standing still. "If you're always on the go, make and angel in the snow, and freeze..."
8. "Comin' From Where I'm From," Anthony Hamilton. This soulful number starts off in jail, "Sitting here guess I didn't make bail," and goes on to explain how he wants to be a better person through a very difficult life. It always makes me reflect on the importance of really trying to understand where someone comes from.
9. "Diamonds on the Inside," Ben Harper. This track goes a little bit deeper than the more obvious "With My Two Hands" from the same album. It talks about the heart, and how so many of us have good intentions that don't always shine through in our lives.
Mixology
I always think of people working in social change as going through the hero's journey. Enduring the relentless doubts and the playing down accomplishments thinking there's so much more to do. Here are my songs of inspiration for each phase and my favorite lyric from each.
1. Ordinary World - "TAKING IT TO THE STREETS" - Doobie Brothers - "I aint blind and I don't like what I think I see"
2. Call to Adventure - "MAN OF LA MANCHA" - Brian Stokes Mitchell "I am I Don Quixote, the Lord of La Mancha, My destiny calls and I go"
3. Refusal of the Call - "GALILEO" - Indigo Girls - "How long til my soul gets it right?"
4. Meeting With the Mentor - "SAVIOR" - Mairead "I may not be an angel, I may not be a savior, but I'm willing to give it a try"
5. Crossing the First Threshold - "BRIDGES" - "The way I get from there to here, I find a bridge and I cross it"
6. Tests, Allies, Enemies - "RED RAIN" - Peter Gabriel "No more denial, Its so hard to lay down in all of this"
7. Approach - "GET IT TOGETHER" - Seal - "Maybe we can be the vision of a prophet man's dream"
8. Supreme Ordeal - "INVINCIBLE" - Pat Benatar "What are we waiting for?"
9. Reward - "ONE BY ONE" - Chorus from the Lion King Broadway - "We will win because we know who we are" (Translated from Zulu)
10. The Road Back - "HOUNDS OF LOVE" - Kate Bush "Take my shoes off and throw them in the lake"
11. Resurrection - "I SHALL BE RELEASED" - Nina Simone - "Oh I swear I see my reflection, somewhere inside these walls"
12. Return With the Elixir - "525,600 Minutes" Stevie Wonder - "How do you measure the life of a woman or a man, Talk about LOVE!"
Onward!
Bold Songs
Bold songs: because love is bold, peace is bold, art is bold.
This is the music that gets me moving…. to work for change. There are two classics on this list, but most of these songs were recorded post-2001 and are a powerful reminder that, here and now, we can and must speak Up.
These artists explore the same idea in very different ways, and together create a sonic portrait of interaction and progression that just plain rocks. Which is what life, and melody, are all about.
DM
*
Stevie Wonder – Love’s in Need of Love Today
Michael Franti and Spearhead – Crazy, Crazy, Crazy
Pink – Dear Mr. President
Big Boi feat. Mary J. Blige – Sumthin’s Gotta Give
Lila Downs - Medley: Pastures Of Plenty/This Land Is Your Land/Land
Patti Smith – People Have the Power
Lenny Kravitz – Love Revolution
Joan Jett and The Blackhearts – Change the World
Bold Songs
My mix is pretty much broken into two sections. The first is why I'm compelled to physically do what I do, i.e. my time volunteering with various institutions. The second part is why I strive to be the person I try to be, mainly in my acceptance of people from all walks of life.
Songs:
On the Turning Away - Pink Floyd: A reminder that there are people in need and we all have an obligation to help.
Das Kapital - Jack Hardy: We are all people. Not only should we help each other, but we have to break some of the views of our previous generations.
Summer in Paradise - Beach Boys: Sorry, the Beach Boys have pretty much always been favorites, and so most of my mixes include a Beach Boys or Brian Wilson song. Still, this is a reminder that we need to protect our world.
Washington Work Song - Disappear Fear: There's a lot of work we have to do for our society, and no window dressing will change the importance of that work or make the problems go away.
If I Had a Hammer - Peter Paul and Mary: My favorite version of a traditional classic."It's the hammer of justice, it's the bell of freedom, it's the song about love between my brothers and my sisters, all over this land."
People are People - Depeche Mode: "Can't understand what makes a man hate another man, help me understand."
Rhythm Nation - Janet Jackson: There are many social issues out there that we all have to work together for to fix.
Fight the Fight - Living Colour: Everyone is working for the same basic goals: "You got to know what you're fighting for."
Biko - Peter Gabriel: A beautiful song for a great man.
Imagine - John Lennon: I see this has been mentioned on some other mixes. But it is one of the ultimate songs about coexisting.
Enjoy,
Dave
8
No two people are the same. Each person is insipred to do good in the world by different things. Here is a mix of just 8 songs. In order to change the world, you need to change yourself and this mix can give you the inspiration to do that.
The absolute talent and feeling and soul that all these artists put into these songs should be enough to Inspire any listener. Enjoy.
War- Bob Marley
Peace Train- Cat Stevens
Moonlight Sonata- Ludwig van Beethoven
A Change Is Gonna Come- Sam Cooke
The Harder They Come- Jimmy Cliff
Try A Little Tenderness- Otis Redding
Preciso Me Encontrar- Cartola
I Wish I knew How It Would Feel To Be Free- Nina Simone
Bold Songs - to change the course - mix
There are times when I wonder if the 'America' I believe in, even exhists... these songs help to remind me that it does. ( and it's worth fighting for!)
The people and stories behind the music give me strength whenever I listen to it.
This playlist contains songs from a variety of artists addressing a variety of social issues - the principles of love, respect, and compassion ring through in every note ... I love them : )
Revolution / The Beatles - peaceful but intense... perfect for this
One Love / Bob Marley - this song makes me smile
Vote / emma's revolution - asks a simple but important question of our government : "why can't you count our votes ?!"
If I had a hammer / Trini Lopez (version) - this is a great song to sing along to : ) - we have everything we need to make changes in our world. justice, freedom, love
If I give your name / emma's revolution - a VERY moving song about the treatment of undocumented workers who died on Sept 11th. It speaks for those who have no voice in this country and it's beautiful.
Zombie / The Cranberries - truly evokes the mania of war and violence
I Aint Marching Anymore / Phil Ochs - THE American soldier song, I cried when I first heard it.
Subdivision / Ani Difranco - a call to protect our environment, address poverty and out of control consumerism ... quiet but powerful.
It Could've Been Me / Holly Near - about people who have lost their lives standing up for freedom. It has a melody and lyrics that stay with you long after hearing it.
Thx ! Enjoy !
~ Jessica
Bold Songs - Sing Our Own Song Mix
Music’s power to arouse and heighten emotions ties it to every facet of human life. But perhaps its most striking quality is the power to inspire. Throughout history, musicians have played a critical role in inspiring us to think of a better world, to expand our boundaries and to fight for change. My mix tape “Sing Our Own Song” tries to bring together artists that have been part of narratives of social change across the world, and mix that with songs that speak of holding on to our own dreams and aspirations.
UB 40 – Sing Our Own Song : “We will fight for the right to be free, We will build our own society”
Daniella Mercury - Sol Da Liberdade : “Under the sun of Freedom …in which they dance”
Flocabulary – Let Freedom Ring: “Flocabulary ( www.flocabulary.com)uses the educational power of Hip Hop music to foster literacy and promote academic achievement”. This song teaches kids about the civil rights movement. Brilliant idea!
John Lennon - Imagine: Probably the most universally recognized song – and it never seems to age.
The Byrds – Turn Turn Turn: This song seems to come back to fight every war.
Indigo Girls - Let It be Me: “If the world is night, shine my life like a light…”
Newton Faulknor - Dream Catch me: “Dream catch me when I fall, or else I won’t come back at all”
Hugh Masakela – Bring Back Nelson Mandela: Created in 1987 by one of Africa’s greatest Jazz musicians, this became the anthem for the movement to free Mandela.
Mercedes Sosa - Gracias a La Vida (Thank you for Life): Argentinean Folksinger known as the “The Voice of the Voiceless Ones”.
Mahalia Jackson – We Shall Overcome: Anthem for the Civil Rights Movement which went on to become universally recognized, adopted by social movements across the world and sung in different languages. Covered by many artists, although few match the power of Mahalia’s rendition.
Bold Songs...
...that once actually sat on 8-Track tapes!
Nothing inspires patience in the face of change like learning to change tapes patiently, and (repeatedly) losing some great tunes which moved me personally just because the danged format couldn't handle them, well *ugh*...
http://8tracks.com/ananser/bold-songs-that-once-sat-on-8track-tapes/
Songs that inspire and conjure love and compassion
Here is a broad mix of songs that i really love and in turn strikes me emotionally and causes me to want to pursue unconditional love towards people that i know and dont know.
Think Positive
http://8tracks.com/halozero/think-positive-mix
For my mix, the theme was simple; Think Positive. I chose songs that inspire me to think of a better world, either explicitly through the lyrics, or through the overall feel the music. Often both. Hope you enjoy it.
Rise - Eddie Vedder
Stay Positive - The Hold Steady
(What's So Funny About) Peace, Love And Understanding - Elvis Costello
The Times They Are A-Changin' - Bob Dylan
Where The Streets Have No Name - U2
What a Wonderful World - Keb' Mo'
Revolution - Stone Temple Pilots
We Are The Champions - Gavin Degraw
My Hero - Foo Fighters
Beautiful World - Colin Hay
All You Need Is Love - The Beatles
Bold Songs for the Pinched
http://8tracks.com/revraikes/bold-songs-for-the-pinched
Some of the songs are inspiring by being cock-eyed optimistic, some by calling for action, some by speaking of disparity of our circumstances. I need all of those things to motivate me to work toward a better future.
There's a running theme throughout of a need for people to band together and for conversations to start. We, none of us, can do anything about the state of the world without critical mass. If we don't hang together, we hang alone.
Listing:
1. Anthem - Phantom Planet
2. Do You Realize?? - The Flaming Lips
3. People - Alfie
4. Perfection - Badfinger
5. We Care a Lot - Faith No More
6. Village Ghetto Land - Stevie Wonder
7. Freedom - Jurassic 5
8. It Takes Time To Build - Beastie Boys
9. Universal Soldier - Donovan
10. The Universal - Blur
War & Peace
http://8tracks.com/oldgreycat/bold-songs-war--peace
The subject of my mix is a simple one - war & peace. I chose these specific songs because they're all ones that touch my soul. They're not all explicitly "anti-war," per se - some (Dixie Chicks' "Travelin' Soldier" and Nanci Griffith's "Travelin' Through This Part of You" speak to the war experience.
Paul McCartney - Tug of War.
Bob Seger - 2+2=?
Bruce Springsteen - Last to Die
CSNY - Families
Dixie Chicks - Travelin' Soldier
Nanci Griffith - Traveling Through This Part of You
Steve Earle - Jerusalem
Bobby Darin - Simple Song of Freedom
10,000 Maniacs - Peace Train
Paul Weller - Can You Heal Us Holy Man/War
Music for the Fifth Column
Here is my entry, which I realize is automatically disqualified due to the breakage of several guidelines, but that's kinda what the mix is about so enjoy!
My Soundtrack for Social Action
My Soundtrack for Social Action
Music is the soundtrack to our lives. There are songs that you just can't get out of your head for days. There are songs that take you back to an amazing moment with a special person. There are songs that motivate you to run, dance or workout. Then there are those songs that remind you of what is happening in the world around you and inspire you to take action and fight for justice.
Below is a list of songs that inspire me to change the world. Though I am not eligible to win, I hope these songs inspire you to stand up for what you believe in.
My Track List
Freedom '90 - George Michael
God's Country - Ani DiFranco
An Open Letter to NYC - The Beastie Boys
Teenagers, Kick Our Butts - Dar Williams
Refugee - Emma's Revolution
Stand Up - God-dess & She
These Stones Will Shout - The Raconteurs
Kindness - Toshi Reagon
Fast Car - Tracy Chapman
Commander - Girlyman
Hope you enjoy it!
Getting Informed + Getting Together = Progress!
These are songs by some of my favourite artists that call for the importance of people thinking seriously about social issues, as well as uniting with others; both are absolutely necessary in order for positive change to occur in one's community, state, country, and the world at large.
1. "Power to the People" - John Lennon:
What better song and musician to start a compilation like this with? The power is in our hands, we have to get out there and do something!
2. "Mass Destruction" - Faithless:
Taking a proactive stand against misinformation, racism, and fear.
3. "Choose What You're Watching" - thenewno2:
A commentary on how we need to get informed instead of being easily swayed by media control.
4. "Wake Up" - Run D.M.C.:
A vision of the world as a better place, with people working in harmony and treating one another fairly; instead of remaining a dream, people should wake up and make it happen!
5. "All Together Now" - The Farm:
Originally written about the Christmas Day Truce of World War I, a still-valid message of joining together and choosing NOT to fight.
6. "The Knowledge" - Janet Jackson:
Education is essential, for ourselves and for our children, for scholastic progress as well as education about societal matters.
7. "Reaching Out" - Kate Bush:
About the instinctive desire to reach out to others, an impulse that more people should surely act upon.
8. "Let's See Action" - The Who
Now that we've gotten pumped up with these songs about working together and extending our knowledge, let's see some action: "Let's be free / Let's see who cares"!
Bold Songs
My song list deals with issues of peace, love, hope, dreams, forgiveness, redemption and change. These songs may be obvious choices, but they are just as significant today as they were back when they were first heard. These songs speak to me on a personal level. Some songs raise questions, while others provide answers. To create change, we must speak up for the truth. Start a revolution for peace. How can a person love another human being if they can’t love themselves? Help those that need it the most. Continue to dream and never give up on hope. Care for one another. Be a role model to the young. Accept that you’re wrong and search for the answers. To truly inspire change to make the world a better place, one must start this change from within. These songs are truly beautiful. Enjoy.
Bob Marley - Redemption Song
Joe Strummer and The Mescaleros - Ramshackle Day Parade
The Beatles - Revolution
Marvin Gaye - What’s Goin’ On
Bob Dylan - The Times They Are A-Changin’
U2 - I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For
John Lennon - Imagine
Michael Franti and Spearhead - Bomb The World
Sam Cooke - A Change Is Gonna Come
Louis Armstrong - What A Wonderful World
Getting Things Done Mix
Tracks and why I chose them:
A little background on all of these tracks, I have been editing this list, carefully, as I play music at City Year Detroit's large service events. These songs have made the cut because they have the ability to inspire our volunteers and corps members as they head out to change the world! I love each of these songs, for their ability to set the right tone for service, bring people together, and inspire people to do more.
1. With My Own Two Hands - Ben Harper
2. Union (feat. Sting) - Black Eyed Peas
3. Pot of Gold - Akon
4. Peace Train - Cat Stevens
5. Talkin' Bout Revolution - Tracy Chapman
6. Life is Beautiful - Vega 4
7. When the Night Feels my Song - Bedouin Soundclash
8. Future Love Paradise - Seal
9. Nightingale Song - Toad the Wet Sprocket
10. Love Will Come Through - Travis
11. Get What You Give - New Radicals
I really can't wait to see everyone else's list! I'll love to improve my service play list. Great contest! Thanks.
an iTunes mix for creating change!
This mix starts with an invitation, then some inspiration with "Shine On You Crazy Diamond." Then the Peter Gunn theme, which expresses the adventure of a big endeavor: the twists and turns and excitement. "Pump Up the Volume," "Everywhere," and "Vox" are for energy, for getting work done. Then "Kalimando" is for inspiration, and the final four are for reflection. I especially like "We're All in the Dance" for both its music and its philosophy.
1. Would You Come With Me - The Elected
2. Shine On You Crazy Diamond - Viktor Krauss featuring Shawn Colvin
3. Peter Gunn - Art of Noise
4. Pump Up the Volume (USA 12" Mix) - Colourbox
5. Everywhere - Fleetwood Mac
6. Vox (Extended Version) - Sarah McLachlan
7. Kalimando - Cirque du Soleil
8. Kum Ba Ya - Lynne Arriale Trio
9. Follow Your Bliss - The B-52's
10. All Will Be Well - Meg Barnhouse
11. We're All In the Dance - Feist
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=289973444
My Mixtape
Here is an eclectic mix of music that gets me inspired to go out and make a difference:
Knights of Cydonia - Muse - Whenever I hear this song, I picture myself as the sheriff riding into a futuristic town to fight for truth and justice.
Beds are Burning - Midnight Oil - A reminder that we have to take care of fundamental human needs first.
Fight the Good Fight - Triumph - For when you just have to rock out and commit yourself to doing what you can for your cause.
Time Has Come Today - Chambers Brothers - Not only does this old tune have cowbell and the word "psychedelicized" in it, but it also gets me pumped to take action right now.
Biko - Peter Gabriel - This was one of the first songs for social change that really resonated with me when I was younger - such powerful orchestration and lyrics about the difference one person can make.
Ani Ve'Ata - Arik Einstein - My favorite classic Israeli song with lyrics that begin "Me and you, we'll change the world, and then everybody will follow..." and such a simple, elegant melody (see video + translated lyrics at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sW8shj0bQ0c).
What Kind of World Do You Want? - Five for Fighting - This song gets me thinking about the changes I want to make happen because "history starts now." I love the way the band tied this song into a campaign to raise money for charity (whatkindofworlddoyouwant.com).
Nessun Dorma - Luciano Pavarotti - Though I've never seen the opera "Turandot" and I don't speak much Italian, I challenge anyone to listen to this aria and not feel inspired to go out and conquer the world upon hearing his final "vincero!"
I Am an Abolitionist - Justin Dillon - This song, which will be on the soundtrack to the soon-to-be-released movie "Call+Response," uses lyrics from the original abolitionist movement in the 1800s set to new music. It brought tears to my eyes when I heard it at a preview, and inspired a renewed commitment to working to abolish modern-day slavery.
(Sorry I couldn't create actual digital mixes because several of these songs were not available.)
Nice... Some songs I nearly
Nice... Some songs I nearly included on mine, plus Biko, which I did use.
Mix for Change
I can't enter the contest, but I wanted to just play along because I love music. I chose these songs because they're powerful in their message and delivery.
Best of luck to all of you!!!
Bold Songs: Anthony's mix for change
A light-hearted and eclectic mix that takes a few different approaches to "songs for change." We've got disco, comedy, electronica, and folk. Check it out.
Go to: http://8tracks.com/santhonys/bold-songs-anthonys-mix-for-change or just use the embedded player below!
Only So Much Oil In The Ground - Tower of Power
Tree Hugger - Antsy Pants
Fight Outta You - Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals
International Rescue - Fuzzbox
Gimme Shelter - Patti Smith
Around the World / Hard Better Faster Stronger - Daft Punk
Think About It - Flight of the ConChords
World Spins Madly On - The Weepies