Music as a spearhead for climate activism

Music as a spearhead for climate activism

Music has historically played an integral role in shaping public discourse, challenging dominant narratives, and reflecting the socio-political climate of its time. It does this by providing a space where artists can be a voice for the voiceless, raise awareness for their causes, and inspire open dialogue and change in people. One critical conversation music highlights greatly is climate change, which is heavily dependent on cultural expression and media representation.

Neil Young performing... Image: supplied

Music as a Catalyst for Environmental Awareness

cIn this case, musicians have been making music inspired by environmental conservation since the early 19th century.  With the likes of Malvina Reynold and her song “what have they done to the rain?” (1962) which warned of nuclear fallout to environmental destruction, to Neil Young’s “After the Gold Rush” (1970) that painted a dystopian vision of environmental catastrophe.

Towards the end of the millennia, other artists, particularly those of colour, began gaining recognition for their climate activism music as well. Artists such as Mos def with his hit “New World Water” (1999), which critiqued the state of water quality and availability for the mid to lower class. And globally renowned musician, Michael Jackson, whose discography is lined with activist music. His song "Earth Song” (1995) gained immense popularity for how it cautioned the world of the environmental impact humans had and the growing issue of climate change. His impact as musician, artist, and spokesman for the oppressed was expressed in this song and rang throughout the world as the anthem of environmental grief and outrage.

Aurora's "A different kind of human" album cover. Image: supplied

The Legacy Lives On

The legacy of these musicians still holds true today with popular artists still creating music that speaks to the climate crisis. A great example of this is RAYE, who teamed up with Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer, to release the cinematic masterpiece “Mother Nature” (2023). The powerful piece addresses the environmental crisis and describes both the beauty and the pain we as humans put nature through. Lyrics such as “For as she burns for us, she still turns for us.” emphasise the climate change issues artistically, reminding us that mother nature continues to provide for and sustain us, even though we are actively hurting her. 

Another prominent figure in today’s scene is the Norwegian artist AURORA, whose entire creative identity centers around a connection to nature and its preservation. Her album “Different kind of human” explores that connection both physically and spiritually, by confronting the ties we have with money, power and what it really means to be human. Sentiments like this really put into perspective our role in shaping the our own lives and futures, reminding us that we are in more control than we beleive.

RAYE performing at the Royal Albert Hall. Image: supplied

Are We Really Listening?

Artists like RAYE and AURORA are just a few examples of how powerful music is for social change. Additionally, they continue to prove that music is not just entertainment but a means that transcends language, culture and history in its messaging. And in the face of the climate change crisis, the question is not if it is being talked about, because it is! Rather, we should as ourselves if we’re actually listening and can take accountability for our actions as humanity.

Conclusion

In a world grappling with the climate crisis, art in all its forms has become more than just creative output. It is a mirror, a protest, and a call to action. Mediums such as music allow us to feel, to question, and to respond to the urgency of our planet’s condition. As a journalist drawn to the intersection of art and politics, I believe cultural storytelling is not just powerful—it’s necessary. Because when facts fail to move us, art reminds us of what’s at stake.