ANTIWAR MUSIC

Artists all over the world have many ways to manifest their protest against war. There are antiwar films such as “Born on the 4th July”, or antiwar pictures like “Guernica”. Music also plays an essential role in the antiwar movement, and it was represented most profoundly in the United States during the last century. The great influence of antiwar music could be explained by the fact that in the 20^th century, we experienced the expansion of all kinds of music, the appearance of so many talents and the fact that there were more wars in this century than ever.

From the beginning of the century when the First World War occurred until the mid-century when the Second finished, all the musicians only performed in their own country. Magnanimous songs were composed, but because of the poor technology, they did not have much chance to remain until our time. Moreover, the antiwar movement was not yet born either.

The Vietnamese War marked the birth of one of the most respectful music movements, and maybe the period experienced the most glorious works of all time. There was Jimi Hendrix, Bod Dylan, Joan Baez, Tom Paxton … who were always at the front of the movement. Their songs had a certain affect on changing the course of the war. In addition, British bands also played their part, with the lead of the Beatles, especially John Lennon, and the Rolling Stones.

In the 80s, not many wars concerned the United States, therefore there was a dramatic decrease in the appearance and frequency of such music in the media. However, Michel Jackson, Lionel Richie and U2 etc. gave us many masterpieces which are still famous today.

Since 9/11 and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the movement has returned with impressive vitality. It is difficult to decide who the leaders are, but we can count amongst them U2 (with Bono, this band will never be old!) Black Eyed Peas and Greenday. Though their contribution cannot yet compare to the previous generations, they have created their mark as a new antiwar movement.

In conclusion, whenever wars exist, artists all over the world will do their best to affirm their opposition. Music in the United States in general will always play the leading role in this movement as it has done for many years.