Hey, today is Election Day! If you’re stuck waiting in line at the polls, or just feeling bummed out about everything that’s happening, or just in the mood to listen to some good music, here are 10 songs to get you through the day. Subscribe to the Spotify playlist here.
1. Aretha Franklin — Respect
On a day that could be historic for women in America, Aretha’s ode to Respect is a timely tune. It’s also a near perfect song, which is also a good reason to listen to it.
2. Sam Cooke — A Change is Gonna Come
Sam Cooke’s A Change is Gonna Come was one of the unofficial anthems of the 2008 election, but I think we can double down here. It’s also one of the few songs ever recorded that’s actually better than Respect, so it has that going for it.
3. The So So Glos — Son of an American
This song is loaded with irony, but there is hope at its heart, and pride.
4. Black Flag — Rise Above
Black Flag may have been thinking more along revolutionary lines when they recorded this song, but voting is a decent way to make sure your voice is heard.
5. Bob Dylan — The Times They Are A-Changing
It was true 52 years ago and it’s true now. Things are a-changing, you fools.
6. Drive-By Truckers — Daddy Needs a Drink
Daddy needs a drink. Amen.
7. Bob Marley & The Wailers — Redemption Song
“None but ourselves can free our mind” may have been taken over as a sentiment by your friendly neighborhood stoner, but the message is beyond heady vibes — it’s about taking responsibility for your own reality.
8. Titus Andronicus — A More Perfect Union
This song starts with a dramatic reading of an Abraham Lincoln speech and ends with a chorus of voices screaming “Rally around the flag!” It’s an ode to our imperfect country, our imperfect selves, and the battle between us.
9. Bruce Springsteen — Born in the U.S.A.
Springsteen’s song has been appropriated as a conservative anthem, which is sort of funny because the song is about the country’s mistreatment of a returning Vietnam veteran. Its patriotism is without question, however.
10. R.E.M. — It’s The End of the World As We Know It
It’s not the end of the world as we know it. Not really. Right? RIGHT?
