John Street says that ‘music has a symbolic force and has the power to create visions, articulate ideas and form bonds.’ I very much agree with this statement as musicians have the ability to articulate messages and beliefs onto a large number of people, which is a very powerful thing. Shuker describes ‘conscious rock’ which raises awareness of issues, such as Band Aid which raised £8 million and enlightened people of issues, such as poverty which they may not have been as knowledgeable in beforehand. If that then inspires someone to go out and make a change, the music is responsible for that.
Overall, whilst I don’t think popular music can necessarily achieve genuine political change on its own, the music and lyrics can spread awareness, change people’s mindsets and maybe make people believe that they themselves can change things, which is a step in the right direction towards political change.
This is pretty clearly and succinctly expressed.
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