Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are inheriting a divided democracy. Their first 100 days will speak volumes about the issues this new administration will tackle head-on and which arguments can finally be laid to rest.
And for those who are celebrating this new day in American politics, we need a go-to playlist. Many of us are tired and torn. Music can energize and bring people together, even in the darkest of times. We should know. We are music producers, critics and fans. So we put together a line-up of tracks we think capture the spirit of the next four years. Now we want to hear from you: what should be the new administration’s theme song?
Whether you want rest, revolution or small victories from inside the system, turn up your volume on the songs below and help us program a YR Media playlist for the Biden-Harris White House.
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“Stand!” by Sly the Family Stone sends a message of change and revolution. It is a call to action and asks listeners to rise to the occasion. The song’s infectious lyrics and funky production bring hope for the future.
In “Good Times,” Sam Cooke sings, "I got my plans, I don't know about you/I'll tell you exactly what I'm gonna do." Although Biden does not know the names of everyone who voted for him, I sure hope he will use his first 100 days to tell them his plans and what he will do. This song serves as the perfect reminder.
This song delivers a powerful two-minute message about standing up, doing the right thing, and questioning the integrity of the U.S.A. Dolla Sign urges more quiet folks to get loud. His music celebrates the power of the people while also hitting the people in power with a cry for HELP.
The pulsing disco beat of Diana Ross's "I'm Coming Out" can make even the most pessimistic person cheerful for at least five minutes, which is necessary after a torturous four years from Donald Trump. It's important to look forward to a brighter future, and this song embodies the change that President Biden and Vice President Harris hope to accomplish.
“Work That” by Mary J. Blige represents the Biden-Harris ticket's power and how they were united throughout their campaign and leading up to inauguration day. In light of Kamala Harris’s historic win, the song “Work That” will speak to women's strength and encourage them to express and be true to themselves.
“Lose Yourself” by Eminem was one of the first songs used in a campaign ad by Biden-Harris to encourage Americans to vote. The song conveyed that voting was a chance to create the change they believed in. Also, it was important not to pass up an opportunity that might cause regret in the future. Adding “Lose Yourself” to the soundtrack would highlight how Biden-Harris overcame major obstacles to get them to where they are today.
I’m thinking the Biden administration will primarily look out for the interests of white elites while sprinkling in some social policies that appeal to progressives. Much like this country trap song, the Biden administration will most likely do very little to create any real change. It’ll appeal to people who don't know the history and make everyone who does sad that we all had to sit through the whole thing.
Although 2Pac wrote "Changes" a little over 20 years ago, the same issues he rapped about in 1998 exist in America today. Poverty, racism and systemic oppression have been glaringly apparent in 2020. While there is still much work to do in the next four years, this song acts as a reminder of the change that is yet to come.
“We Take Care Of Our Own” by Bruce Springsteen expresses a message of hope for people to help one another and their communities after their government has failed to do so for them. The song shows how President Biden and Vice President Harris will seek to solve the issues left over from the Trump administration. Hopefully, this anthem will comfort and inspire citizens to fight for justice.
“Nina Cried Power” honors the activists and musicians from the Civil Rights Era who carried a radical spirit in their work. In the song, Hozier highlights that the inequality these artists fought against is still present in our country today. The song calls on activists to rally for causes and make their voices heard. “Nina Cried Power” is an anthem to muster up a rebellious spirit for the new Biden administration.
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