The Intersection of Music and Politics

Music and politics collide on various levels. Music can be used to push political agendas. If artists write songs about political and social issues such as lesbian/gay relationships, poverty, or a political party, then these songs become a vehicle for political activism.  If the government was to limit what artists could write and sing about then the music industry would become nothing more than a government controlled broadcast that forces it's listeners to receive a bias message. It is for this reason that the music industry must be free from government control. Thankfully, due to  freedom of speech, artists are able to express their thoughts freely. For example, The Black Eyed Peas were able to point out various issues that they found were wrong with the world, especially in the United States, through their song, "Where is the love?" This song pointed out political and social issues such as racism, poverty, and political secrets. Two other examples are Obamagirl and Iman. Through their songs "Crush on Obama" and 
"(OBAMA - Whatever I Like)" these artists were able to show their support of President Obama.