’We’re not scaremongering, this is really happening.’ What 24 songs show us about the music of climate awareness

Photo Some rights reserved By Will Foster via Flikr.

Introduction

The climate crisis is impacting many aspects of human life. But how is it being felt in the realm of music, and what significance does this hold? 

Historically music has amplified social movements including the Civil Rights Movement, Anti-Vietnam protests and Live Aid. Music supported these causes by expressing emotion and unifying people. But is it doing this successfully for the climate crisis?

This blog looks at different emotional angles musicians have taken to the crisis and whether there are gaps that could effectively be further explored. The analysis also explores the roles musicians have taken when composing songs about the crisis.

So if you are interested in the climate, and music means a lot to you, read on.

The songs I listened to

This analysis is based on 24 songs (listed at the bottom). To…