Monday, January 16, is the federal holiday that marks the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. Although the holiday faced opposition when it was first introduced, it has been celebrated in all 50 states since 2000. King is a prominent figure in the history of civil rights, most notably with his “I Have a Dream” speech:
…I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.”
In honor of MLK, take some time to listen to these songs to remember his contribution to the social and political atmosphere in America.
- “Pride (In the Name of Love)” by U2 (1984) – Although this song has a factual error (King was killed in the early evening, not morning), that hasn’t kept music fans from appreciating this tribute.
- “MLK” by U2 (1984) – This song by an Irish group demonstrates the international influence of Martin Luther King. It’s much different than Pride, almost a complete 180, as it’s more of a lullaby/ballad with minimal instrumentation. Bono was honored by the King Center for his two songs about MLK.
- “We Shall Overcome” by Bruce Springsteen (2006) – Although this song has been used many times in instances of oppression, it was originally written for the civil rights movement. The words are hopeful and encouraging.
- “Like a King” by Ben Harper (1994) – Harper draws parallels between Rodney King and MLK in this poignant folksy ballad, reminding listeners of the Los Angeles riots in the early 1990s.
- “By the Time I Get to Arizona” by Public Enemy (1991) – Chuck D wrote this song in response to the opposition in Arizona to recognizing MLK’s birthday. The song came back into popularity just a few years ago when Arizona cracked down on undocumented immigrants.
- “One Vision” by Queen (1985) – “One man, one goal” opens this song that hopes for unity.
- “Happy Birthday” by Stevie Wonder (1981) – Wonder penned this song as part of the campaign to make MLK’s birthday a federal holiday. Wonder sings that “I just never understood / How a man who died for good / Could not have a day that would /Be set aside for his recognition…”
- “Blackbird” by the Beatles (1968) – Although not written for MLK specifically, this song was written in response to the civil rights movement and race relations happening in the United States in the late 1960s. Paul McCartney and John Lennon had many songs that encouraged unity and peace.
- “Up to the Mountain” by Patty Griffin (2005) – This song references another famous speech from MLK – “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop.” It was first performed by Griffin, but Kelly Clarkson recorded it a few years later.
- “Glory” by John Legend and Common (2014) – Legend wrote this rap/ballad for the movie “Selma.” MLK isn’t the only important figure mentioned in the lyrics. Rosa Parks gets honored as well. Watch the movie after you listen to the song.
Music is a way of introducing history to your children in a medium that isn’t so dry as books and words. We should celebrate MLK’s achievements and memory on his birthday every year. The civil rights movement is an important part of the history of the United States. It’s vital to understand who MLK was and why he mattered to human rights. We aren’t the only country that celebrates his memory. Toronto, Canada, remembers his birthday each year, but not as a public holiday. A city in the Netherlands holds an annual tribute and dinner to MLK. He is a man who should be remembered.