20 Songs About Justice And Human Rights

As someone deeply passionate about justice and human rights, I’ve always been moved by the power of music to inspire change and raise awareness. Throughout history, artists have used their voices to shine a light on social issues, challenge oppression, and call for equality. 

Here, I’ve curated a list of 20 powerful songs that address various aspects of justice and human rights. These tracks not only serve as anthems for movements but also as poignant reminders of our shared humanity and the ongoing struggle for a more just world.

1. “We Shall Overcome”

“We Shall Overcome” is a gospel song that became the anthem of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s. Its origins are somewhat murky, with influences from various hymns and spirituals, including “I’ll Overcome Someday” by Charles Albert Tindley. The song gained prominence during a 1945–1946 labor strike in Charleston, South Carolina, where African American women strikers sang it as a protest song, transforming “I Will Overcome” to “We Will Overcome” to emphasize solidarity.

Folk singer Pete Seeger played a significant role in popularizing the song, changing “We will” to “We shall.” The song’s simplicity made it easy to learn and sing at various civil rights protests, such as sit-ins, marches, and rallies. It became a symbol of hope and resilience, famously sung by Joan Baez at the 1963 March on Washington and by President Lyndon Johnson in a 1965 speech to Congress following the Selma to Montgomery marches.

2. “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley

“Redemption Song” is one of Bob Marley’s most iconic tracks, featured on his 1980 album Uprising. Unlike most of his other songs, “Redemption Song” is an acoustic solo performance, highlighting Marley’s vocals and guitar. The song’s lyrics are inspired by a speech from Pan-Africanist orator Marcus Garvey, urging listeners to “Emancipate yourself from mental slavery; none but ourselves can free our minds”.

The song addresses themes of oppression, hope, and the enduring human spirit. It reflects Marley’s own struggles and the broader fight for freedom and justice. Despite its departure from Marley’s typical reggae style, “Redemption Song” has become a timeless anthem of emancipation and resilience, resonating with audiences worldwide.

3. “Man In Black” by Johnny Cash

“Man In Black,” released in 1971, is a protest song by Johnny Cash that explains his choice to wear black clothing. The song’s lyrics articulate Cash’s solidarity with the poor, the imprisoned, and those suffering from social injustices. He sings, “I wear the black for the poor and the beaten down, livin’ in the hopeless, hungry side of town,” highlighting his empathy for marginalized groups.

Cash’s “Man In Black” serves as a critique of societal issues and a call for awareness and change. The song underscores his commitment to using his platform to address injustices and support those who are often overlooked by society. It remains a powerful statement on social responsibility and advocacy for human rights.

4. “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke

“A Change Is Gonna Come,” released in 1964, is a soul song by Sam Cooke that has become an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement. Inspired by Cooke’s experiences with racism and the burgeoning civil rights struggle, the song expresses a profound sense of hope and determination. The lyrics, “It’s been a long, a long time coming, but I know a change gonna come,” capture the longing for social justice and equality.

Cooke wrote the song in response to personal experiences and the broader context of racial discrimination in America. “A Change Is Gonna Come” is celebrated for its emotional depth and powerful message, symbolizing the fight for civil rights and the belief in a better future. It continues to inspire movements for social change and justice. These four songs, each from different genres and periods, collectively underscore the universal struggle for justice and human rights. They serve as powerful reminders of the resilience and hope that drive social movements and the ongoing fight for equality.

5. “Blowin’ In The Wind” by Bob Dylan

“Blowin’ In The Wind” by Bob Dylan is a seminal protest song that became an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement. Released in 1963 on his album The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan, the song poses a series of rhetorical questions about peace, war, and freedom, encapsulating the frustrations and hopes of the era. Dylan’s lyrics, “How many roads must a man walk down before you call him a man?” and “How many times must the cannonballs fly before they’re forever banned?” challenge listeners to reflect on societal injustices and the elusive nature of solutions to these problems. The phrase “The answer is blowin’ in the wind” suggests that the solutions are apparent yet ignored by society.

6. “For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield

“For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield, released in 1966, is often associated with the anti-Vietnam War movement, though it was originally inspired by the Sunset Strip curfew riots in Los Angeles. Written by Stephen Stills, the song captures the tension and unrest of the 1960s, with lyrics like “There’s something happening here, but what it is ain’t exactly clear” and “Paranoia strikes deep, into your life it will creep.” It speaks to the broader youth protests against authority and the demand for social change, making it a timeless anthem for civil disobedience and resistance against oppression.

7. “Testify” by Rage Against The Machine

“Testify” by Rage Against The Machine, from their 1999 album The Battle of Los Angeles, is a powerful call to action against societal injustices. The song critiques government and media manipulation, urging listeners to recognize and confront the injustices happening “right outside your door.” With lines like “The movie ran through me, the glamour subdue me, the tabloid untied me,” the band highlights the numbing effect of media on public consciousness and the importance of awakening to reality. The aggressive tone and urgent message of “Testify” make it a rallying cry for activism and resistance against systemic corruption and oppression.

8. “I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers

“I Won’t Back Down,” released in 1989 on Tom Petty’s solo album Full Moon Fever, is a song of resilience and personal empowerment. The lyrics, “Well, I won’t back down, no, I won’t back down, you can stand me up at the gates of hell, but I won’t back down,” convey a message of steadfast determination in the face of adversity. The song has been embraced by various movements and individuals as an anthem of resolve and perseverance. It has been used in political campaigns and personal struggles alike, symbolizing the fight against injustice and the importance of standing one’s ground. 

9. “Poetic Justice” by Kendrick Lamar

“Poetic Justice,” released in 2012 on Kendrick Lamar’s major-label debut album Good Kid, M.A.A.D City, is a complex narrative that intertwines themes of love, conflict, and justice. The song, featuring Drake, samples Janet Jackson’s “Any Time, Any Place” and uses rich, symbolic language to explore the intricacies of relationships. The term “poetic justice” in the song reflects the dichotomy of good and bad in life, akin to a flower blooming in a dark room—both miraculous and suspect. Lamar’s storytelling delves into personal struggles and societal expectations, making it a profound piece on the search for authenticity and justice within personal connections.

10. “Justice” by Ziggy Marley

“Justice” by Ziggy Marley, from the 1989 album One Bright Day, is a powerful anthem calling for fairness and equality. The song emphasizes the urgent need for justice in a world rife with injustice, highlighting the suffering of the innocent and marginalized. Marley references historical figures like Marcus Garvey and Steve Biko, connecting past injustices to present-day struggles. The repeated cries for justice underscore its importance as both a legal and moral imperative. Through metaphors and emotional tone, Marley urges listeners to strive for a world where justice is accessible to all, making it a universal call to action.

11. “Big Iron” by Marty Robbins

“Big Iron,” a country ballad by Marty Robbins, was released in 1959 on the album Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs. The song tells the story of an Arizona Ranger’s duel with the notorious outlaw Texas Red in the town of Agua Fria. The narrative highlights themes of law, justice, and the swift hand of retribution. The Ranger, armed with the titular “big iron” gun, ultimately defeats Texas Red, symbolizing the triumph of justice over lawlessness. The song’s vivid storytelling and historical Western setting have made it a classic, reflecting the timeless struggle between good and evil.

12. “Exigimos” by Doctor Krápula

“Exigimos” by Doctor Krápula, from their 2012 album Viva El Planeta, is a potent protest anthem demanding social justice. The song addresses various pressing issues, including the need for respect for life, better education, truthful news, and the protection of natural resources. It calls for an end to corruption, the return of stolen land, and the liberation of oppressed people. The repeated phrase “we demand” emphasizes the urgency and collective power of these calls for change. Through its energetic mix of rock and Colombian ska, “Exigimos” serves as a rallying cry for activism and the fight against systemic injustices. 

13. “John Brown’s Body” by Pete Seeger

“John Brown’s Body” is a Union marching song from the American Civil War era, popularized by folk singer Pete Seeger. The song commemorates John Brown, an abolitionist who led an unsuccessful raid on Harper’s Ferry in 1859 to incite a slave rebellion. The lyrics celebrate Brown’s legacy and his fight against slavery, with the refrain “Glory, glory, hallelujah” emphasizing the righteousness of his cause.

Pete Seeger’s rendition, recorded in 1959 for the album “American Favorite Ballads, Vol. 3,” helped keep this historical anthem alive in the 20th century. The song’s enduring popularity reflects its significance in the struggle for racial equality and human rights in America. Its melody later became the basis for “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” further cementing its place in American cultural history.

14. “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood

While not traditionally categorized as a song about justice and human rights, “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood addresses themes of personal justice and retribution. Released in 2005, it tells the story of a woman taking revenge on her unfaithful partner by vandalizing his car.

The song, written by Josh Kear and Chris Tompkins, was initially intended for Gretchen Wilson but became one of Underwood’s signature hits. Its lyrics vividly describe the protagonist’s actions, from “carving her name into his leather seats” to “taking a Louisville Slugger to both headlights.” While the song’s approach to justice is controversial, it resonated with audiences, becoming a massive crossover success and winning multiple awards.

15. “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised” by Gil Scott-Heron

Gil Scott-Heron’s “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised” is a seminal work in the fight for social justice and civil rights. Originally recorded in 1970 and re-recorded with a full band in 1971, this spoken-word piece is a powerful critique of mass media and consumerism in America.

The song’s lyrics are a series of statements about what “the revolution will not” be, referencing numerous cultural touchstones of the time. Scott-Heron’s message is clear: real social change won’t come through passive consumption of media but through active participation and awareness. The song’s title has become a widely used phrase in popular culture, symbolizing the idea that significant social change often happens outside of mainstream attention.

16. “No Body, No Crime” by Taylor Swift ft. HAIM

“No Body, No Crime” is a country-influenced track from Taylor Swift’s 2020 album “Evermore,” featuring the band HAIM. The song tells a noir-like tale of infidelity, murder, and revenge, exploring themes of justice through a dark narrative lens.

The story follows the disappearance of a woman named Este (named after Este Haim), who suspects her husband of cheating. The narrator, presumably Swift, then takes matters into her own hands, resulting in the husband’s disappearance. The refrain “no body, no crime” suggests a form of vigilante justice, where the perpetrator evades legal consequences due to lack of evidence.

While not explicitly about human rights, the song touches on issues of domestic strife, female solidarity, and the lengths some might go to for justice when the system fails them. Its storytelling approach has been praised for its vivid imagery and suspenseful narrative.

17. “Strange Fruit” by Billie Holiday

“Strange Fruit,” recorded by Billie Holiday in 1939, is one of the most powerful protest songs in American history. Written by Abel Meeropol, a Jewish school teacher and civil rights activist, the song was originally a poem titled “Bitter Fruit.” It vividly describes the horrors of lynching in the American South, comparing the victims to fruit hanging from trees. The haunting lyrics, “Southern trees bear a strange fruit, Blood on the leaves and blood at the root, Black bodies swinging in the Southern breeze,” paint a stark and disturbing picture of racial violence.

Billie Holiday’s performance of “Strange Fruit” at Café Society in New York City became legendary. She would close her sets with the song, performed under a single spotlight with no encore, creating a deeply emotional and impactful experience for the audience. Despite initial resistance from her record label, Holiday’s recording of “Strange Fruit” sold over a million copies and became one of her most defining works. The song has been recognized as a significant cultural artifact, being inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the National Recording Registry.

18. “Justice” by Wiz Khalifa, Bob Marley and The Wailers, and Nakkia Gold

“Justice,” a collaboration between Wiz Khalifa, Bob Marley and The Wailers, and Nakkia Gold, is a contemporary anthem calling for social justice and equality. The song blends reggae, hip-hop, and soulful vocals to address issues such as police brutality, systemic racism, and the need for societal change. It samples Bob Marley’s iconic “Get Up, Stand Up,” reinforcing the message of standing up for one’s rights and fighting against oppression.

The lyrics of “Justice” emphasize the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of unity in the face of injustice. Wiz Khalifa’s verses highlight modern-day issues, while Nakkia Gold’s powerful chorus echoes Marley’s timeless call for action. The collaboration bridges generational and genre gaps, making it a relevant and resonant piece for today’s social justice movements.

19. “Fight The Power” by Public Enemy

“Fight The Power,” released in 1989 by Public Enemy, is a seminal hip-hop anthem that addresses racial inequality and calls for resistance against systemic oppression. Written for the soundtrack of Spike Lee’s film Do the Right Thing, the song’s aggressive beats and politically charged lyrics became a rallying cry for the African American community. Chuck D’s powerful delivery of lines like “Elvis was a hero to most, but he never meant shit to me” and “We gotta fight the powers that be” challenges the status quo and demands social change.

The song’s impact extended beyond music, influencing the cultural and political landscape of the time. It became an anthem for the burgeoning hip-hop generation and a symbol of the fight against racial injustice. “Fight The Power” remains a powerful and relevant song, continuing to inspire activism and resistance against oppression.

20. “Goodbye Earl” by The Chicks

“Goodbye Earl,” released in 2000 by The Chicks (formerly known as Dixie Chicks), is a country song that addresses domestic violence and female empowerment. The song tells the story of two friends, Mary Ann and Wanda, who take matters into their own hands to escape Wanda’s abusive husband, Earl. The darkly humorous narrative ends with Earl’s death and the friends living happily ever after.

While the song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus contrast with its serious subject matter, “Goodbye Earl” brings attention to the issue of domestic abuse and the lengths to which victims may go to find justice. The song sparked controversy and discussion upon its release but also resonated with many listeners as an anthem of empowerment and solidarity for those affected by domestic violence.

Submit Your Song to This Playlist

Do you have a track or song you’d like to feature on this playlist? If so, please fill out the form below for our evaluation.

Serena Whitfield

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.