I was a teenager in the 60’s – impressionable, rebellious, principled, anti-war, anti-big-government, pro peace, pro freedom, pro equality, a believer in doing what you think is right and a big believer that you are responsible for your own destiny and for your own happiness.

In 2020 – amidst this toxic environment of political ineptitude, rampant nationalism, violence and racism – I remain pretty much of the same mind -although not so impressionable!!

Music and poetry have been a big part of my life – with language being a lifelong passion.  Revolution begins with language – and here are 20 songs that meant a lot to me in the 60’s – and still do today – songs of protest, of anger, of fight, of oppression, of inequality, of rage, and yes – of love, hope and optimism.

A reminder that we should all Stand Up and Fight.

A Playlist of Protest:

• The Eve of Destruction – Barry McGuire
• It’s Good News Week – Hedgehoppers Anonymous
• Big Yellow Taxi – Joni Mitchell
• Little Boxes – Pete Seeger
• We Shall Overcome – Joan Baez
• Blowin’ in the Wind – Bob Dylan
• The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll – Bob Dylan
• I Ain’t Marching Anymore – Phil Ochs
• Fortunate Son – Creedence Clearwater Revival
• The Times They Are A-Changin’ – Bob Dylan
• Universal Soldier – Buffy Sainte-Marie
• Only A Pawn In Their Game – Bob Dylan
• A Change Is Gonna Come – Sam Cooke
• Mississippi Goddam – Nina Simone
• Give Peace A Chance – John Lennon
• Freedom – Richie Havens
• Everyday People – Sly & The Family Stone
• For What It’s Worth – Buffalo Springfield
• Respect – Aretha Franklin

… and one from The Boss in 2001 – America Skin

Let Freedom Ring!

KR