Politics in Music

More about the book

Exploring the political dimensions of music over the last two centuries, the book examines the ideological uses of compositions from Beethoven to hip-hop. It highlights how Beethoven's works have been co-opted by various political movements and draws parallels between Bob Marley and Wagner's operas in their revolutionary themes. Nationalist and labor music, including the story of Joe Hill, are discussed, as well as the politically charged music of the Vietnam War. The study culminates with an analysis of hip-hop, addressing the surge in politically motivated contemporary music.