Below are five songs, from “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” to “Put a Woman in Charge,” that mean something to me as we approach the presidential election of 2024—and hopefully choose the right candidate.
I. “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” (version by Raye)
This James Brown song from 1966 is not about feminist empowerment. Think “patriarchy.” Think “living in a male-centered world.” However, in the hands of the right woman, in this case Raye, an up and coming British vocalist, the lyrics that matter and stand out are the following:
…This is a man’s world, this is a man’s worldBut it wouldn’t be nothing, nothing without a woman or a girl…
Although this live performance is on the long side, it’s well worth it:
II. “You Don’t Own Me” by Lesley Gore
This hit by Lesley Gore (1946-2015) was released in 1963. Over the years it’s become a feminist anthem.
Below it’s the cornerstone of a PSA regarding women’s rights that Gore introduces herself. A few of the other peeps you might recognize include actresses Mae Whitman and Natasha Lyonne and singer Sia.
Also check out this cover by Kristin Chenoweth featuring Ariana Grande:
…Oh, oh-oh-oh-oh
She got both feet on the ground
And she’s burnin’ it down
Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh-oh
She got her head in the clouds
And she’s not backin’ down
This girl is on fire
This girl is on fire
She’s walkin’ on fire
This girl is on fire…
IV. “This Land Is Your Land” (version by Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings)
Sharon Jones (1956-2016) truly made this Woody Guthrie folk song from 1940 her own when she covered it in 2005. Not a feminist tune, but a soulful anthem for everyone, men and women of all races and ethnic backgrounds, sung by a powerful woman.
…This land is your land, and this land is my landFrom California to the New York islandFrom the Redwood Forest to the Gulf Stream watersThis land was made for you and me…
V. “Put a Woman in Charge” by Keb’ Mo’ featuring Rosanne Cash
Keb’ Mo’ released this in 2018—at the height of Trumpism in the White House and elsewhere. The title and lyrics say it all.
…She’ll be a hero Not a fool
She’s got the power
To change the rules
She’s got something that men don’t have
She is kind and she understands
So Let the ladies
Do what they were born to do
Raise the vibration
And make a better place for me and you…
