The Impact of Music on Protest Movements Around the World MUS303H1
The Impact of Music on Protest Movements Around the World
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The Impact of Music on Protest Movements Around the World
MUS303H1 S LEC0101
2Topic
This proposed study embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the profound influence
of music within the terrain of global protest movements. From the melodic chords of folk ballads
to the carousing beats of hip-hop, music has continually moved beyond physical boundaries to
transform into a tool that effectively directs rebellion, expresses injustices, and promotes social
justice through collective action. The proposed study explores how music and activism interplay
with musical moves, rhythms, and lyrics of different types of songs creating reform movements
in socio-political, cultural and historical contexts from all over the world.
Research Question(s)
The study explores how protest music evokes emotions and unity, analyzing its role in
expressing cultural identity and challenging power structures. It also examines the impact of
technology and social media in spreading protest music, fostering global solidarity, and
enhancing freedom of expression. Essentially, the proposed study is guided by three main
questions. These questions are as follows:
1. How do the elements of music contribute to emotional arousal and the creation of a sense
of unity among protesters?
2. In what ways does protest music embody cultural heritage and identity, and how does it
challenge dominant narratives and power structures?
3. How has the evolution of technology and social media platforms impacted the
dissemination and influence of protest music in enabling resistance against established
ideologies?
The 5 W’s
3Who: This project examines the roles of musicians, activists, and civilians in protest movements,
drawing on MacLachlan (2023), whose work titled ‘Revolutionary Songs from Burma,’ study of
revolutionary songs in Burma and Oliveira's (2023) research on Brazilian rap and popular music
as forms of dissent.
What: The study examines music's role in protest movements, highlighting its power to express
dissent, resilience, and hope. Siamdoust’s (2023) research on women reclaiming their voices for
life and freedom through music during the 2022 uprising in Iran provides more insight into the
transformative power of music in articulating and amplifying social protest movements.
When: From the hallowed grounds of historic uprisings to the bustling streets of contemporary
demonstrations, the proposed study provides in-depth insights into protest movements, tracing
the evolution and adaptation of musical activism across generations.
Where: The study explores diverse cultural landscapes, spotlighting protest movements from
around the globe. It highlights examples of musical activism, which are essential in initiating
movements for change in similar instances like the civil rights era in America the South and the
passionate protests of the Arab Spring.
Why: The study endeavors to determine the relevance of music in contemporary socio-political
movements with a focus on making a lasting impact. It not only emphasizes but also elucidates
music’s vital role in establishing social justice and a fair world.
Format of Visual Presentation: The visual presentation will take the form of a PowerPoint
presentation, incorporating multimedia elements such as images and audio clips to enhance the
exploration of various protest movements and their musical expressions.