Music has the extraordinary power to capture moments in time, reflect societal shifts, and inspire movements. For musicians like John Craigie, this historical and transformative aspect of music is profoundly significant. Growing up immersed in music, Craigie recognized early on its capacity to not only provide personal solace but also to echo calls for broader change, much like his heroes Nina Simone, Pete Seeger, and Ani DiFranco. This curated playlist delves into songs that embody this spirit, tracks that have served as historical records and continue to resonate with artists like John Craigie who believe in music’s power to ignite social progress.
Nina Simone – “The Backlash Blues”
Nina Simone’s discography is a powerful testament to her artistry and activism, and “The Backlash Blues” stands out for its raw, unflinching directness. This song, among many of her performances, deeply impacted a young John Craigie, offering a stark perspective on societal realities. Simone’s ability to be both powerful and deeply moving is evident in this track, making it an essential listen for anyone seeking to understand music as a form of protest and poignant social commentary.
John Lennon and Yoko Ono – “Power to the People”
While known for his work with The Beatles, John Lennon’s solo endeavors, particularly his protest songs, hold significant weight. Beyond “Imagine” and “Instant Karma!”, tracks like “Power to the People” became anthems of a generation. For John Craigie, discovering Lennon’s protest music was a revelation, highlighting the artist’s commitment to using his platform for messages of unity and change. This song’s energetic call to action and optimistic spirit continue to inspire musicians and listeners alike.
Curtis Mayfield – “Move on Up”
Curtis Mayfield’s impact on music extends from his soulful melodies to his socially conscious lyrics. “Move on Up,” from his debut solo album after The Impressions, showcases his signature bass lines and uplifting message. John Craigie’s early band days and exploration of albums like Superfly led him to Mayfield’s profound catalog. The single version of “Move on Up” is immediately engaging, but the extended album version offers an even deeper dive into Mayfield’s musical genius, influencing artists like Craigie with its blend of rhythm and social awareness.
Buffalo Springfield – “For What It’s Worth”
“For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield remains a timeless anthem, recognized for its beautiful harmonies and poignant message. Beyond its musical appeal, the song is a crucial piece of history, representing Stephen Stills and Neil Young before their time in CSNY. John Craigie appreciates the song’s ability to blend peaceful instrumentation with urgent lyrics addressing societal issues, reminding listeners to stay aware and engaged with the world around them.
Richie Havens – “Freedom (Live)”
The story behind Richie Havens’ “Freedom (Live)” at Woodstock is as compelling as the performance itself. Improvised on stage due to festival delays, this song captures the raw emotion and spirit of the era. For John Craigie, Havens’ passionate delivery of simple yet powerful lyrics exemplifies music’s ability to channel and express the collective feelings of a generation grappling with global events. This spontaneous creation stands as a testament to the power of music in moments of social significance.
Bob Dylan – “The Times They Are A-Changin’”
Acknowledging its iconic status, Bob Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin’” remains a cornerstone of protest music and a significant influence on songwriters like John Craigie. Craigie’s first encounter with this song, through The Wonder Years, left a lasting impression, feeling as relevant to his Los Angeles community then as it was during its creation. Learning this song early in his guitar journey solidified Dylan’s impact on his songwriting aspirations.
Marvin Gaye – “What’s Going On”
Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On album transcends typical romantic connotations, delving into profound themes of injustice and social commentary. Initially introduced to Gaye’s music through “date night” tracks, John Craigie’s discovery of What’s Going On through a record store pamphlet marked a turning point. The album’s opening track poignantly addresses injustice, making it a lasting favorite and demonstrating Gaye’s depth as an artist beyond his popular love songs.
Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young – “Ohio”
“Ohio” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young is a raw and immediate response to the Kent State shootings. Neil Young’s rapid songwriting and the band’s quick studio recording, releasing the single just weeks after the event, underscore the urgency and emotional impact of the tragedy. For John Craigie, “Ohio” serves as a stark reminder of a pivotal moment in history, urging continued reflection and learning from past events, especially relevant in today’s world.
Aretha Franklin – “Think”
Aretha Franklin’s powerful voice and passionate delivery in “Think” embody a fervent call for freedom. Alongside “Respect,” this track was among John Craigie’s early introductions to Franklin’s music, deeply inspiring him with her vocal prowess and unwavering passion. “Think” resonates across generations, its themes of freedom and self-determination remaining as potent in contemporary times as they were during the tumultuous year of 1968.
Bruce Springsteen – “Born in the U.S.A.” (Demo Version)
Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.” is often misinterpreted due to its stadium-rock anthem presentation. John Craigie initially found the popular album version cheesy and blindly patriotic. However, discovering the demo version, with its minor chord backdrop and stripped-down arrangement, revealed the song’s true essence as a protest against the Vietnam War and its aftermath. This demo version offers a crucial perspective shift, highlighting the song’s critical commentary on American society.
Sam Cooke – “A Change is Gonna Come”
Concluding this playlist on a note of hope, Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna Come” is an enduring anthem of optimism and perseverance. Written in response to Cooke’s personal experiences with racism, this song embodies the ongoing struggle for equality. For John Craigie, it serves as a reminder of progress made and the continuous journey towards a more just future, offering a soundtrack to enduring hope and the relentless pursuit of change.
Through these songs, we see the profound impact of music as a vehicle for social commentary and change. Artists like John Craigie continue to draw inspiration from this rich legacy, crafting music that not only entertains but also reflects and challenges the world around us. This playlist is a testament to the enduring power of music to document history, inspire action, and foster hope for a better future, values deeply resonant in the work of John Craigie and countless musicians striving to make a difference.
