Let’s sing it! Songs for ‘ordinary’ people
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11:55 am, October 19th, 2012 - 109 comments
Categories: activism, class war, democratic participation, history, music, Revolution, video, workers' rights -
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Revolutions, political movements and protests are fueled by songs. They bring people together in common cause, draw attention to devastating conditions, tell stories of unbearable hardship, reassure the oppressed that they are not alone, and inspire people to take political action.
Nina Simone sings ‘Pirate Jenny’ Lyrics
I woke up the other morning with this Pulp song in my head. It’s catchy and very much naff 90s fashion in style and clothes – the days when consumer society was dominant and unavoidable. However, in it’s time it was a great pop song attack on wealthy pseuds who want to ease their conscience by slumming it with the “common” folk – without understand the daily struggles of people on low and mediocre incomes. Common People
This thread is for sharing your favourite songs that tell of the struggles of ordinary people: of social issues, community solidarity, protests, political movements and revolution. It’s also for you to comment on, and tell stories of, and about such songs.
Hope you get to spend Labour Weekend the way you want to! And take a moment to ponder on its significance.
Update: From Rosie comes the topical video of the day so far Home Brew ‘Listen to Us’.
109 comments on “Let’s sing it! Songs for ‘ordinary’ people ”
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- Release: Quick, submit – stop Govt’s dodgy approvals billThe Government is trying to bring in a law that will allow Ministers to cut corners and kill off native species, Labour environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said. ...3 weeks ago
- Government throws coal on the climate crisis fireThe Government’s policy announced today to ease consenting for coal mining will have a lasting impact across generations. ...3 weeks ago
- Release: Public transport costs to double as National looks at unaffordable roading project insteadCancelling urgently needed new Cook Strait ferries and hiking the cost of public transport for many Kiwis so that National can announce the prospect of another tunnel for Wellington is not making good choices, Labour Transport Spokesperson Tangi Utikere said. ...3 weeks ago
- Release: Cost of living in Auckland still not a priorityA laundry list of additional costs for Tāmaki Makarau Auckland shows the Minister for the city is not delivering for the people who live there, says Labour Auckland Issues spokesperson Shanan Halbert. ...3 weeks ago
- Gaza and the Pacific on the agenda with Germany
Foreign Minister Winston Peters discussed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and enhanced cooperation in the Pacific with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during her first official visit to New Zealand today. "New Zealand and Germany enjoy shared interests and values, including the rule of law, democracy, respect for the international system ...17 hours ago - Decision allows for housing growth in Western Bay of PlentyThe Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop today released his decision on four recommendations referred to him by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, opening the door to housing growth in the area. The Council’s Plan Change 92 allows more homes to be built in existing and new ...2 days ago
- Speech to New Zealand China CouncilThank you, John McKinnon and the New Zealand China Council for the invitation to speak to you today. Thank you too, all members of the China Council. Your effort has played an essential role in helping to build, shape, and grow a balanced and resilient relationship between our two ...2 days ago
- Modern insurance law will protect Kiwi householdsThe Government is modernising insurance law to better protect Kiwis and provide security in the event of a disaster, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly announced today. “These reforms are long overdue. New Zealand’s insurance law is complicated and dated, some of which is more than 100 years old. ...2 days ago
- Government recommits to equal payThe coalition Government is refreshing its approach to supporting pay equity claims as time-limited funding for the Pay Equity Taskforce comes to an end, Public Service Minister Nicola Willis says. “Three years ago, the then-government introduced changes to the Equal Pay Act to support pay equity bargaining. The changes were ...3 days ago
- Transforming how our children learn to readStructured literacy will change the way New Zealand children learn to read - improving achievement and setting students up for success, Education Minister Erica Stanford says. “Being able to read and write is a fundamental life skill that too many young people are missing out on. Recent data shows that ...3 days ago
- NZ not backing down in Canada dairy disputeTrade Minister Todd McClay says Canada’s refusal to comply in full with a CPTPP trade dispute ruling in our favour over dairy trade is cynical and New Zealand has no intention of backing down. Mr McClay said he has asked for urgent legal advice in respect of our ‘next move’ ...3 days ago
- Stronger oversight for our most vulnerable childrenThe rights of our children and young people will be enhanced by changes the coalition Government will make to strengthen oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system, including restoring a single Children’s Commissioner. “The Government is committed to delivering better public services that care for our most at-risk young people and ...3 days ago
- Streamlining Building Consent ChangesThe Government is making it easier for minor changes to be made to a building consent so building a home is easier and more affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “The coalition Government is focused on making it easier and cheaper to build homes so we can ...3 days ago
- Minister acknowledges passing of Sir Robert Martin (KNZM)New Zealand lost a true legend when internationally renowned disability advocate Sir Robert Martin (KNZM) passed away at his home in Whanganui last night, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. “Our Government’s thoughts are with his wife Lynda, family and community, those he has worked with, the disability community in ...4 days ago
- Speech to New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Parliament – Annual Lecture: Challenges ...Good evening – Before discussing the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s foreign policy, we’d like to first acknowledge the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. You have contributed to debates about New Zealand foreign policy over a long period of time, and we thank you for hosting us. ...4 days ago
- Accelerating airport security linesFrom today, passengers travelling internationally from Auckland Airport will be able to keep laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags for security screening thanks to new technology, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience is important for holidaymakers and businesses, enabling faster movement through ...4 days ago
- Community hui to talk about kina barrensPeople with an interest in the health of Northland’s marine ecosystems are invited to a public meeting to discuss how to deal with kina barrens, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones will lead the discussion, which will take place on Friday, 10 May, at Awanui Hotel in ...4 days ago
- Kiwi exporters win as NZ-EU FTA enters into forceKiwi exporters are $100 million better off today with the NZ EU FTA entering into force says Trade Minister Todd McClay. “This is all part of our plan to grow the economy. New Zealand's prosperity depends on international trade, making up 60 per cent of the country’s total economic activity. ...4 days ago
- Mining resurgence a welcome signThere are heartening signs that the extractive sector is once again becoming an attractive prospect for investors and a source of economic prosperity for New Zealand, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The beginnings of a resurgence in extractive industries are apparent in media reports of the sector in the past ...4 days ago
- Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill passes first readingThe return of the historic Ō-Rākau battle site to the descendants of those who fought there moved one step closer today with the first reading of Te Pire mō Ō-Rākau, Te Pae o Maumahara / The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill. The Bill will entrust the 9.7-hectare battle site, five kilometres west ...5 days ago
- Government to boost public EV charging networkEnergy Minister Simeon Brown has announced 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes between major urban centres and outlined the Government’s plan to supercharge New Zealand’s EV infrastructure. The hubs will each have several chargers and be capable of charging at least four – and up to 10 ...5 days ago
- Residential Property Managers Bill to not progressThe coalition Government will not proceed with the previous Government’s plans to regulate residential property managers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. “I have written to the Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee to inform him that the Government does not intend to support the Residential Property Managers Bill ...5 days ago
- Independent review into disability support servicesThe Government has announced an independent review into the disability support system funded by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the review will look at what can be done to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Disability Support Services to provide disabled people and ...5 days ago
- Justice Minister updates UN on law & order planJustice Minister Paul Goldsmith has attended the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva and outlined the Government’s plan to restore law and order. “Speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council provided us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while responding to issues and ...5 days ago
- Ending emergency housing motels in RotoruaThe Government and Rotorua Lakes Council are committed to working closely together to end the use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua. Associate Minister of Housing (Social Housing) Tama Potaka says the Government remains committed to ending the long-term use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua by the ...5 days ago
- Trade Minister travels to Riyadh, OECD, and DubaiTrade Minister Todd McClay heads overseas today for high-level trade talks in the Gulf region, and a key OECD meeting in Paris. Mr McClay will travel to Riyadh to meet with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). “New Zealand’s goods and services exports to the Gulf region ...6 days ago
- Education priorities focused on lifting achievementEducation Minister Erica Stanford has outlined six education priorities to deliver a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success. “I’m putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system. I want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they ...6 days ago
- NZTA App first step towards digital driver licenceThe new NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) App is a secure ‘one stop shop’ to provide the services drivers need, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins say. “The NZTA App will enable an easier way for Kiwis to pay for Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges (RUC). ...6 days ago
- Supporting whānau out of emergency housingWhānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...6 days ago
- Tribute to Dave O'SullivanRacing Minister Winston Peters has paid tribute to an icon of the industry with the recent passing of Dave O’Sullivan (OBE). “Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says. “His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then ...6 days ago
- Speech – Eid al-FitrAssalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all. Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister ...6 days ago
- Government saves access to medicinesAssociate Health Minister David Seymour has announced Pharmac’s largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff. “Access to medicines is a crucial part of many Kiwis’ lives. We’ve committed to a budget allocation of $1.774 billion over four years so Kiwis are ...6 days ago
- Pharmac Chair appointedHon Paula Bennett has been appointed as member and chair of the Pharmac board, Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced today. "Pharmac is a critical part of New Zealand's health system and plays a significant role in ensuring that Kiwis have the best possible access to medicines,” says Mr Seymour. ...7 days ago
- Taking action on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum DisorderHundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says. “Every day, ...1 week ago
- New sports complex opens in KaikoheRegional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...1 week ago
- Diplomacy needed more than everForeign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges. “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...1 week ago
- Anzac Commemorative Address, Buttes New British Cemetery BelgiumAmbassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service. It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...1 week ago
- Anzac Commemorative Address – NZ National Service, Chunuk BairDistinguished guests - It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders. Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...1 week ago
- Anzac Commemorative Address – Dawn Service, Gallipoli, TürkiyeMai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia. Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...1 week ago
- PM announces changes to portfoliosPaul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...2 weeks ago
- New catch limits for unique fishery areasRecreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...2 weeks ago
- Minister welcomes hydrogen milestoneEnergy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...2 weeks ago
- Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment BillThe coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...2 weeks ago
- Overseas decommissioning models consideredOverseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...2 weeks ago
- The good news is the government plans to cancel $3 billion in student debt. The bad news is indexati...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Norton, Professor in the Practice of Higher Education Policy, Australian National University Every year on June 1, student debt in Australia is indexed to inflation. In 2023, high inflation pushed the indexation rate to 7.1%, the highest since 1990. This ...3 hours ago - Albanese government to wipe $3 billion in student debt, benefitting three million peopleSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Changes in the May 14 budget will cut the student debt of more than three million people, wiping more than $3 billion from what people owe. The government will cap the HELP indexation rate ...5 hours ago
- ICC demands end to threats against court amid Gaza war probeAsia Pacific Report The prosecutor’s office at the International Criminal Court (ICC) has appealed for an end to what it calls intimidation of its staff, saying such threats could constitute an offence against the “administration of justice” by the world’s permanent war crimes court. The Hague-based office of ICC Prosecutor ...7 hours ago
- New Caledonia’s women sit-in to support smeared Kanak journalistBy Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk A women’s union in New Caledonia has staged a sit-in protest this week to support senior Kanak indigenous journalist Thérèse Waia, who works for public broadcaster Nouvelle-Calédonie la Première, after a smear attack by critics. The peaceful demonstration was held on ...8 hours ago
- New Zealand signs deal with Germany on Antarctica cooperation
The memorandum of understanding with Germany's Alfred Wegener Institute is expected to foster cooperation between the two polar science bodies. ...13 hours ago - NZ food safety agency monitoring Indian spice mix recallsNew Zealand Food Safety is monitoring overseas recalls of Indian packaged spice products manufactured by MDH and Everest due to concerns over a cancer-causing pesticide. ...15 hours ago
- Fiji’s media freedom ranking jumps, Papua New Guinea’s plummetsBy Stephen Wright and Stefan Armbruster of BenarNews Fiji’s ranking in a global press freedom index has jumped into the top tier of countries with free or mostly free media after its government last year repealed a draconian law that threatened journalists with prison for doing their jobs. Fiji’s improvement ...18 hours ago
- The Boy in the Water: ‘I just can’t do this anymore’
We might be in Invercargill but all anyone can talk about is Gore. Specifically, Salford Street. That’s where three-year-old Lachlan Jones lived, south of the centre of town, between the A&P Showgrounds and the Mataura River. Roughly 1.2 km away from the single level home he lived in with his ...23 hours ago - 'Data is the new oil': Call to save jobs of data security guardsNew Zealanders' data is at risk with the government's "unintelligent" proposal to cut information security jobs, the Privacy Foundation says. ...24 hours ago
- The Secret Diary of .. Coalition Sheriff LuxonMONDAY I lined up the latest round of civil servants from city hall against the wall, and signalled for the firing squad to drop their rifles. I stepped up onto a wooden crate to look at the office workers in the eye. But that didn’t feel right, so I found ...1 day ago
- Liam Hewson seeks answers in natureKeen hiker and second-year MSc student Liam Hewson wears two hats when he’s in the great outdoors. “The scientist in me appreciates nature and goes, ‘Oh, there’s that thing and there’s another thing,’ but then the tramper and the outdoorsy person in me thinks, ‘Cool bush.’” Born and bred in ...1 day ago
- Dan Carter won’t stop kicking
After a long and illustrious career as a goal kicker, Dan Carter’s favourite way to unwind is… kicking goals. Why can’t he get enough of it? And what it’s like to watch him do it for an hour straight? A semicircle of people wielding cameras and phones has formed in ...1 day ago - ‘Everybody rolls their eyes’: Dame Susan Devoy’s guilty TV pleasureDame Susan Devoy takes us through her life in television, including late night ER debriefs, her proudest CTI moment and the show she watches in secret. Quite aside from her four world champion squash titles, Dame Susan Devoy will likely go down in history as one of the best Celebrity ...1 day ago
- Dunedin’s secondhand bookshops, ranked and reviewedHera Lindsay Bird reveals the best places in Ōtepoti to score more for your apocalypse-prep book hoard. Sometimes I get the feeling I’ve been killed in a car crash, and this second half of my life is just the brain unspooling itself, like one of those episodes of a hospital ...1 day ago
- Review: High Country is the ideal crime drama for a cold winter nightThreeNow’s new murder mystery series takes us on a dark, damp journey into the Australian wilderness. This is an excerpt from our weekly pop culture newsletter Rec Room. Sign up here. High Country is ThreeNow’s new Australian eight-part crime drama, set in a remote part of the Victorian highlands. It tells ...1 day ago
- Welcome to The WeekendIntroducing a new way to read The Spinoff every weekend. After nearly 10 years of being an online magazine, we’re finally embracing the weekend liftout. Despite our best efforts to convince you otherwise, writers and editors at The Spinoff don’t work weekend. It is through the sheer power of technology ...1 day ago
- Tips and tricks for when your therapist looks like your dadTip one: let yourself be nurtured by this big old man. Tip two: don’t ask him to adopt you. So, you’ve arrived at your first session with a new therapist. He tells you to make yourself comfortable and you opt for the tweed armchair, hoping it makes you look like ...1 day ago
- The Sunday Essay: The books that electrify and consume youI didn’t know books could open you back up; that there were books that stayed with you, where reading was like a chemical event. I knew nothing. The Sunday Essay is made possible thanks to the support of Creative New Zealand. Not too long ago, I was listening to the American ...1 day ago
- The Enhanced games, where drug use isn’t cheatingFormer Olympic swimmer James Magnussen has already started training for the Enhanced games, though says he won’t start taking performance enhancing substances until about nine months out from the competition. The Australian world champion was the first athlete to be announced by Enhanced, but he says the organisation has had ...1 day ago
- Short story: The boat in the shed, by Kyle MewburnEveryone thinks he’s dead. Every day they expect his body to be washed up along the coast. Most likely up Karitane way, the way the tide’s running. But nobody’ll be too surprised if his body’s never found. Even in death he wouldn’t have wished for such attention. He would have ...1 day ago
- USP Council votes to bring controversial VC back to FijiCouncil members voted 21 to 4 in favour of Ahluwalia returning to the Laucala campus following a much-awaited meeting in Vanuatu this week. It comes as USP and its two unions — the Association of the University of the South Pacific Staff (AUSPS) and the Administration and Support Staff Union ...1 day ago
- Public health expert urges govt to focus on disease preventionThe government needs to step up in the wake of a report showing a third of Kiwis have unmet health needs, Professor Boyd Swinburn says. ...1 day ago
- Figures like Andrew Tate may help spread misogyny. But they’re amplifying – not causing – the ...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicola Henry, Professor & Australian Research Council Future Fellow, Social and Global Studies Centre, RMIT University Shutterstock Following an emergency meeting of the National Cabinet this week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a raft of measures to tackle the problem ...1 day ago
- Free speech debate back on as Victoria University expands diversity on panelA perceived right-wing bias and concerns about panellist diversity have pushed Victoria University to reformat its debate. ...1 day ago
- Week in Politics: Polls, pay rises and a Green MP in troubleAnalysis - A poll showing the opposition is more popular than the government raises questions, politicians go through their 'trial by pay rise' and a Green MP loses her cool in the debating chamber. ...2 days ago
- Māori win customary title over Tokomaru Bay on East CoastThe entire stretch of Tokomaru Bay on the East Coast will be subject to a joint customary marine title for two hapū, and extending up to four miles out to sea. A High Court judge has found the two groups, who during the case settled a dispute over boundaries for ...2 days ago
- Universal’s music is returning to TikTok, ending a spat that hurt fans more than anyoneSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James Hall, Lecturer, Media & Cultural Studies, Edith Cowan University A longstanding feud between TikTok and Universal Music Group seems to have finally reached an end, with both parties signing a deal that will see Universal-backed music returned to the social media ...2 days ago
- To tackle gendered violence, we also need to look at drugs, trauma and mental healthSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Siobhan O’Dean, Postdoctoral Research Associate, The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney After several highly publicised alleged murders of women in Australia, the Albanese government this week pledged more than A$925 million over five years ...2 days ago
- National raised $10.4m in donations in 2023Political parties have now fully disclosed the donations they received last year - with National getting more than double the cash of any other party. ...2 days ago
- Don't 'mistake' Pacific leaders 'quietness' on AUKUS as support for NZ'...A Pacific regionalism expert has called out New Zealand's Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters for withholding information from the public on AUKUS military pact. ...2 days ago
- Florist says Julie Anne Genter exchange was 'massive imbalance of power'The Wellington woman says she felt degraded and humiliated after being confronted by the Green MP. ...2 days ago
- China’s new Moon mission is about to launch, and it’s a rare example of countries working togeth...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Richard de Grijs, Professor of Astrophysics, Macquarie University Bruno Scramgnon/Pexels All systems are “go” for tonight’s launch of China’s next step in a carefully planned lunar exploration program. Placed on top of a powerful Long March 5 rocket, the Chang’e 6 ...2 days ago
- National returned $200,000 donation day after Newsroom storyNational returned a massive donation the day after a Newsroom story linked the donors to a property being investigated for operating unlawfully as a migrant workers’ hostel. The party’s 2023 donation filings, released on Friday, show it returned a $200,000 donation from Buen Holdings on August 23. That was the ...2 days ago
- NZ slumps to 19th as RSF says press freedom threatened by global declinePacific Media Watch New Zealand has slumped to an unprecedented 19th place in the annual Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index survey released today on World Press Freedom Day — May 3. This was a drop of six places from 13th last year when it slipped out of its ...2 days ago
- Access to documents about Australia’s political history is fraught and inadequate. It needs to cha...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua Black, Political Historian and Administrator Officer, Australian Historical Association, Australian National University Australia has had its fair share of public record-keeping controversies in recent years. Some have been mere farce, as in the case of two formerly government-owned filing cabinets (containing ...2 days ago
- Greens have 'historically bad' start to the year – political scientistThe party has had faced a challenging set of circumstances over the past five months, Lara Greaves says. ...2 days ago
- HWPL Calls For Peace Amid Rising Tensions Between Israel And Iran
Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), a United Nations-affiliated organization dedicated to fostering peace through civilian-led initiatives, has issued a statement in response to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. ...2 days ago - The Friday Poem: ‘Mātou’ by Tessa KeenanA poem by Tessa Keenan, from AUP New Poets 10. Mātou These days we are a photograph; one of a farm strewn with cows that used to be bright harakeke or swamp. The kids point at it and say the sun sits behind a smudge (left by someone at Christmas); ...2 days ago
- The Unity Books bestseller chart for the week ending May 3The only published and available best-selling indie book chart in New Zealand is the top 10 sales list recorded every week at Unity Books’ stores in High St, Auckland, and Willis St, Wellington. AUCKLAND 1 Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan (Faber & Faber, $25) The masterful Irish writer ...2 days ago
- Marriages, Civil Unions, And Divorces: Year Ended Dec 2023Marriage and civil union statistics record the number of marriages and civil unions registered in New Zealand each year, and divorce statistics record the number of divorces granted in New Zealand each year. Key facts Marriages and civil unions In ...2 days ago
- Marriages, Civil Unions, And Divorces: Year Ended December 2023Marriage and civil union statistics record the number of marriages and civil unions registered in New Zealand each year, and divorce statistics record the number of divorces granted in New Zealand each year. ...2 days ago
- How effective are domestic violence advertising campaigns for preventing violence against women?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Waller, Associate Professor, University of Technology Sydney shutterstock Cristina RasoBoluda/Shutterstock Domestic violence is a significant personal, community and social issue attracting much attention. After several recent horrific cases, media discussion, calls for a royal commission to end the violence and ...2 days ago
- Taiwan is experiencing millions of cyberattacks every day. The world should be paying attentionSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lennon Y.C. Chang, Associate Professor of Cyber Risk and Policy, Deakin University Taiwan stands out as a beacon of democracy, innovation and resilience in an increasingly autocratic region. But this is under growing threat. In recent years, China has used a variety ...2 days ago
- ‘There was life in the old girl yet’: Dame Susan Devoy on taking reality TV by stormIn this excerpt from her new memoir, Dame Susan Devoy remembers her turn as star contestant on the 2022 season of Celebrity Treasure Island. The most anxious time of every day was pre-elimination, when you knew this could be your final day on the show. I felt such contradictory emotions, ...2 days ago
- Auditor-General criticises way University of Waikato contracted Steven JoyceJohn Ryan says the University of Waikato did not invite multiple contractors and reached out to the former finance minister directly. ...2 days ago
- 'Not my first legal rodeo' – Winston Peters on defamation threatForeign Affairs Minister Winston Peters says he will not be cowed by threats of legal action, having received a legal letter from Bob Carr. ...2 days ago
- Can the Green Party’s holy mission survive its fallible disciples?A week that began in triumph ended in an all-too-familiar disaster for the Green Party. Duncan Greive asks if there’s something in the mission that breaks its best and brightest. A long, strange week for the Green party began with a fantastic poll result. On one level this is hardly ...2 days ago
- Vanuatu’s Kalsakau resigns, calls for delay on constitutional referendumBy Lydia Lewis, RNZ Pacific journalist Vanuatu’s former prime minister and opposition MP Ishmael Kalsakau has stepped down — just two days after he confirmed he was the rightful opposition leader. Kalsakau, MP for Port Vila, confirmed to ABC’s Pacific Beat, and the Vanuatu Daily Post on Thursday that he ...2 days ago
- Winston Peters gives China speech amid legal drama and AUKUS questionsThe Foreign Minister spoke about the NZ-China relationship amid lingering questions about the AUKUS security alliance . ...2 days ago
- Gone By Lunchtime: Mojo machine misfires, honeymoon cancelledWhat’s to blame for the coalition’s choppy start? Six months in, and the mojo meter is in the doldrums. A new poll would put National out of power and sees its leader, Chris Luxon, sliding in popularity. How much is it about policy, how much coalition management and a perception ...2 days ago
- The Waitangi Tribunal’s latest report is about far more than just child protectionThe striking report goes far beyond the proposed repeal of the Oranga Tamariki Act’s Treaty of Waitangi provision, and its impact should be felt far beyond the unique circumstances of the claim it addresses. Earlier this week, the Waitangi Tribunal released an interim report on the government’s proposed repeal of ...2 days ago
- Live Winston Peters gives China speech amid legal drama and AUKUS questionsThe Foreign Minister was speaking at the New Zealand China Council while questions linger about the AUKUS security alliance . ...2 days ago
- 'We weren't informed': Apprentice working on school unaware of asbestosThe Education Ministry is promising to do more about asbestos problems in schools, with tighter controls over detection and removal. ...2 days ago
- New Treasury Paper On The Productivity SlowdownThe world has been experiencing a productivity slowdown, from which New Zealand has not been exempt. COVID-19 temporarily boosted labour productivity, but more recently, productivity has retreated. The overall trend since 2007 has been one of slow productivity ...2 days ago
- The prison slushy story is back, baby, and it’s less nutritious than everWhat’s more wasteful than spending $315k on syrup and machine maintenance? Trying to drum up a controversy about it. Cast your mind back to the pre-pandemic idylls of 2019. A “rat” was a disgusting rodent and not a self-administered plague test; the sixth Labour government was in power; and the ...2 days ago
- AI can now generate entire songs on demand. What does this mean for music as we know it?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Oliver Bown, Associate Professor, UNSW Sydney PeamDesign / Shutterstock In March, we saw the launch of a “ChatGPT for music” called Suno, which uses generative AI to produce realistic songs on demand from short text prompts. A few weeks later, a ...2 days ago
- Domestic violence disclosure schemes may not improve safety for victim-survivors of intimate partner...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate Fitz-Gibbon, Professor of Social Sciences, Faculty of Arts, Monash University, Monash University Ken stocker/Shutterstock In the wake of numerous killings of women allegedly by men’s violence in 2024, thousands of Australians have joined rallies across the country to demand action ...2 days ago
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heres my two to kick it off, Gil Scott-Heron, Woody Guthrie
the revolution will be live!
The revolution will not be televised. Hold on to that hope. RIP Gil Scott Heron
Pete Segar’s version of which side are you on. The song was written by Florence Reece, the wife of Sam Reece who was a union leader of the coal miners in Kentucky in 1931. The miners and management were involved at the time in a bloody, violent struggle. The song is particularly relevant for some supposedly lefty politicians …
My pick too mickysavage. A haunting and beautiful version.
My politcal anthems are;
Shoplifters of the World Unite – The Smiths
Freeedom isn’t free (theres a heafty fuck’n fee) – Team America World Police
Jake the peg – Rolf Harris
Why am I not surprised that a RWNJ celebrates songs that deal with theft, the loss of freedom and the making fun of someone with a disability …
The same reason I am not suprised by the total sense of humour failure by a bleeding heart lefty.
But KK this is meant to be a celebratory discussion of passionate activist songs and you turn up and do the equivalent of farting in church …
Which is really funny…unless you are some kind of pious dork.
You miss the point KK. Song and music are extraordinarily important parts of the class struggle. They transmit really important ideas like solidarity and pride and resistance and justice.
And you show up during a discussion about their importance and come out with some really naif stuff like an idiot song that an Australian celebrity put out 40 years ago.
It is really naff. It is an insult to a really important discussion.
And instead of poking fun how about you acknowledge that you have no understanding of what is being discussed.
Pious dork.
Bloody hell KK. We agree on something – The Smiths, Shoplifters of the world Unite.
… you do realise that the TAWP song is taking the piss, right?
Way beyond KK’s understanding …
I struggle to think what that movie looks like to someone who thinks Trey Parker and Matt Stone are traditional rightwing conservatives …
Crass -Systematic Death
http://youtu.be/os8Pg4VQajI
A look at modern day life in its very depressing reality
Too many songs to mention.
However, the two I’ve found myself humming today are:
Joseph Arthur – We travel as equals or not at all….*
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSWir4yxDyU
…..and Making Plans for Nigel -XTC (because of the title of a recent blogpost at BR).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0X4Czq1c1E&feature=related
And while we’re on the subject of the fabulous Nina Simone – Four Women:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRmzQ39sXTQ&feature=related
*also posted today in a comment lost in moderation
Two songs from two eras: Joshua Gone Barbados
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x46d0240kSw
and
Navigator by the Pogues:
Bless ya Karol ….
“Top rankin” – Bob Marley and the Wailers
“Run to the hills” – Iron Maiden
“War Pigs” – Black Sabbath
“Killing yourself to live” – Black Sabbath
“Animals” – Pink Floyd
“You keep on moving” – Deep Purple
“It serves me right to suffer” – John Lee Hooker
“Strange Fruit” – Billie Holiday
“Mayland Blues” – Mahatma Blues (Cheers bbf)
“Toughman Blues” – Mahatma Blues
“I’ve got the Blues” – Mahatma Blues
Anything by Chris Cornell
Have a great Weekend everyone 🙂
PS So many more, couldn’t put them all in Sorry M8’s
Too easy Planet Orphan, you’ve got to go and get them for us!
That will require breaking into the Holden of some Upper Hutt bogan and stealing them off his stereo.
KK is a wellingtonian huh, Just ask them to turn it up M8!
According to the US legal system , all u have too do is ask Kim Dotcom M8! 😉
Animals is one of Pink Floyd’s most underrated albums – along with Obscured by the Clouds.
So true, they all stand the test of time.
Though I don’t like The Wall and everything else after Richard Wright left.
Or some decent bands
Fat Freddies Drop
Pitch Black
Muse
Jethro Tull
King Crimson
White Zombie
Enough for a good Weekend there..
What? No Sex Pistols? no Clash?
How about Ted Nugent? Heh.
Tracy Chapman ” Talkin about a Revolution”
Never learned to link sorry!
This song is for all wannabe politicians everywhere …
Why not this.
the times they are a-changin’– the byrds.
where have all the flowers gone–pete seeger.
little boxes.
powderfinger–neil young.
hey hey my my–neil young.
and once you’re gone then you cant come back.
when you’re out of the blue and into the black.
MY GENERATION—-THE WHO.
Did you hear the Pete Townshend interview with Kim Hill this morning?
http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/saturday/audio/2536140/pete-townsend-the-who.asx
And as for tunes. how about some Roy Harper
Pink, and the song’s author from Four Non-Blondes, (now oddly blonde) along with an auditorium of back-up singers, belt out the anthem “What’s Going On”
Slick http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gWtNbHBNqM
The list would feel incomplete without Sound of da Police:
+1 KRS-1
And the later day reply from Dizzee Rascal. Same deal
“We may rise and fall, but in the end
We meet our fate together”
~Creed ‘One’ (lyrics only)
~Muse ‘Uprising’ (lyrics only)
Strawbs – Part of the union 1973
Now I’m a union man
Amazed at what I am
I say what I think
That the company stinks
Yes I’m a union man.
When we meet in the local hall
I’ll be voting with them all
With a hell of a shout
It’s out brothers out
And the rise of the factory’s fall.
Oh you don’t get me I’m part of the union
You don’t get me I’m part of the union
You don’t get me I’m part of the union
Till the day I die, till the day I die.
I loved this song then and I still do!
+1 there are lots from when I was very young – almost all my politics was learned through music, but the Thatcher years brought many more. Standing the test of time for me is almost
everything from Big Country’s Steeltown.
Especially Steeltown,
http://m.youtube.com/#/watch?v=e3Veko70OfQ&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3De3Veko70OfQ&gl=GB
and
Where the rose is sown,
http://m.youtube.com/#/watch?v=-pBfIMLzDfE&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3D-pBfIMLzDfE&gl=GB
Need to interpret the Scottish accents, but.
Notable mention from this era is the Modfather… Paul Weller and the much maligned Style Council
[karol: I couldn’t get the videos at your link to work. They seem to be on mobile. I think I found the right ones and added them to your comment. Hope that’s OK?]
Ah, I use to have that Big Country album on vinyl, rosy. They satrted about the same time as U2, but didn’t seem to last as long in the mainstream.
Stuart Adamson of Big Country suicided in his early (or was it mid?) forties. He was a recovering alcoholic and had been sober for upwards of ten years until something triggered him to drink again. He quickly became unwell and suicided a few months after taking up the drink. RIP. Stuart Adamson. He was a man with such potential.
That’s really sad, Rosie. I just listened to those 2 songs again. Brought back memories. I had that LP when I was living in London. My grandparents were rom working class Scottish families, so I feel some connection with that country, and those songs – albeit a distant connection.
Thanks for fixing the links Karol. I was logging in on a tablet so must remember to check for problems next time I do that. I was in Scotland, so couldn’t resist posting. Ditto re Scottish working class roots.
Yes, Rosie – terribly sad about Stuart. Self-medicating with alcohol for depression never ends well, i guess. Apparently the song ‘east of eden’ is the personal description of his depression. I managed to see him perform live a few times. An extremely talented man who spoke for a lot of people, including me.
What no ‘Hurricane’ by Bob Dylan?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdOCWUgwiWs – Nah just this lol
Great song. And based on fact.
One of my favourite musicians.
All have a great Labour Weekend.
I am reading the biography of Michael Joseph Savage ‘From the Cradle to the Grave’ by Barry Gustafson.
At this torrid time in our history I think this ought to be a compulsory read.
It is very very good.
It’s a bit camp but Dire Straits Industrial Disease is pretty relevant.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Industrial_Disease_(song)
A liilte cliche perhaps but for mine you cant go past Rage Against The Machine – all of it.
Try this one, “Wake Up”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1T8xgHdMEM
The Clash -” Know Your Rights”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bL0CCphgmZ8
“White Riot”
you can always throw all your machinery away!
Of course Clashman. Big Ups.
Billy Bragg http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bKMei-tcg4&feature=related
Youngstown. – The Boss at his best
“Well my daddy come on the Ohio works
When he come home from World War Two
Now the yard’s just scrap and rubble
He said “Them big boys did what Hitler couldn’t do.
“These mills they built the tanks and bombs
That won this country’s wars
We sent our sons to Korea and Vietnam
Now we’re wondering what they were dyin’ for”
“From the Monongahela valley
To the Mesabi iron range
To the coal mines of Appalachia
The story’s always the same
700 tons of metal a day
Now sir you tell me the world’s changed
Once I made you rich enough
Rich enough to forget my name”
…I dedicate these following lyrics to DunnoKeyO Ltd & Co because I tracked them down after having started recalling the main chorus after spending a lot of time thinking about DKO ltd co’s activities. (no guesses why).
We’re setting sail to the place on the map
from which no one has ever returned
Drawn by the promise of the joker and the fool
by the light of the crosses that burned.
…
It’s the place where they keep all the darkness you need.
You sail away from the light of the world on this trip, baby.
Avarice and greed are gonna drive you over the endless sea
They will leave you drifting in the shallows
or drowning in the oceans of history
Traveling the world, you’re in search of no good
but I’m sure you’ll build your Sodom like you knew you would
Using all the good people for your galley slaves
as you’re little boat struggles through the warning waves, but you don’t pay
You will pay tomorrow
You’re gonna pay tomorrow
You will pay tomorrow
Save me. Save me from tomorrow
I don’t want to sail with this ship of fools. No, no
Oh, save me. Save me from tomorrow
I don’t want to sail with this ship of fools
~World Party Ship of Fools (lyrics only)
N.b. Interesting that this song was created at a time when the neo con was taking hold worldwide…
Excellent
Cash rules everything around me, C.R.E.A.M get the money, dollar dollar bill yo…
Good on you Karol. We all have our own soundtracks to our personal views and experiences of social and political change – with old faves and new ones. It’s quite funny because as I hopped on to this article this was playing on Radio Active:
Homebrew (NZ): :Listen to us
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8AjgWyxJAGQ
Heres some others:
Tom Waits: Hell broke Luce from last years album “Bad as me”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Fju9o8BVJ8
The Hot Grits (NZ) with the Ballad of Joe Stalin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ox4DRiCj9qM
80’s classic from Patti Smith: People have the power
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zva9mnZCrWU
Gary Clail:Privatise the air (suck in in like a millionaire)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08ClpJrNdqI&feature=related
Finally, but only because I’ll run out room heres Clanadonia. Why? because they are crazy neo pagan Scots dudes and theres nothing like drums and pipes to stir the blood
Ah so many good songs from commenters here. Some of my old favourites – Billy Bragg, Woody, the Boss, Tracey Chapman, Nina Simone, Patti Smith, Dylan, Seeger, Gil Scott Heron …. and many more plus some I’ve enjoyed seeing for the first time.
But, Rosie that Homebrew Video must be the topical choice of the day. I want to see if I can add the link to it to an update to my post. Having a bit of a problem because I’m not getting a “visual” view of my editable post, only the html view – will see if I can get it to work.
Hi Karol. Sorry can’t make any suggestions re computer sorcery with that link….thats not my area of expertise unfortunately. The Homebrew song was released prior to the election last year. And does any one remember Upper Hutt Posse? Well they’re back with an album they bought out last year. It is excellent political and social commentary. Have heard songs from the album and listened to interviews but haven’t got a copy as yet. I still say “album”. LOL.
Ah, yes,. I remember the Hombrew song last election. It highlights Keys conveniently faulty memory, his dishonesty and his slipperiness, as well as some issues that are even more crucial now. Why didn’t more people pay attention?
Still brings tears and rage.
Damn the Tories no matter which country they call “home”.
http://youtu.be/9t4-zDem1Sk
Oh, and before the Nationalists start yelling Pom!
http://youtu.be/xz4D5JlHoQQ
Epic Phil. Loved the comments. I have a friend from Liverpool who is saving a bottle of “special” for when the day comes.
Richard Thompson’s Time to Ring Some Changes.
This old house is a tumbling down
The walls are gone but the roof is sound
The landlord’s deaf, he can never be found
It’s time to ring some changes
They’ll arrest you son if you just stand still
They’ll ask you to pose with your hand in the till
They’ll ask you to die when you’ve written your will
It’s time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
You earn your money for your daily bread
But the bread’s gone up so you need more money
But the money’s gone down, better borrow instead
It’s time to ring some changes
Now the politicians, they look so smug
They say tell the truth, then they give you a shrug
You might find the truth swept under the rug
It’s time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Now listen here to the self-made man
He says why can’t you if I can
Can’t you push buttons, can’t you make plans
It’s time to ring some changes
I’m going to tear this mansion down
Get my feet back on the ground
Penny for penny and pound for pound
It’s time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Time to ring some changes
Covers by various artists on YouTube, plus one of the man himself.
Clash–“Washington Bullets”
“it’s up to you not need to hear The Call Up..”
A lovely line from a Wellington boy, Samuel Flynn Scott , in his ‘Union Man”
“Cut off the hands of old John Key, I’m a union man and I’ll never believe that you’re working for me”.
Perfect then , perfect now.
“Get up, stand up”, little wonder that Bob Marley was targeted for assassination and any by Rage Against the Machine especially “Know your enemy”
Inspired by todays struggle for justice in the Middle East, From Mangere East our own Roger Fowler gives us his contribution to the genre of “Songs for ‘ordinary people’. Though written for the Palestinians the haunting chorus has a message for all of us.
Since the fatal Marvie Marmara attacks Roger Fowler twice entered the Palestinian territory of Gaza in defiance of the brutal and illegal Israeli siege at the head of the Kiaora Gaza delegation part of two recent successful international siege busting convoys into Gaza where from first hand experience he was inspired to write this song.
Queens Service medal winner, and Mangere East Learning Centre founding manager, Roger Fowler sings his own tribute to the struggles of the Palestinians. Accompaniment by Tigi Ness.
http://kiaoragaza.wordpress.com/2011/12/02/kia-ora-gazas-new-song-we-are-all-palestinians/
With two successful aid missions under his belt, next month Roger Fowler is going to attempt to enter Gaza for a third time. This time for an extended journalistic fact finding mission to explore and report back on the weakening of the siege of Gaza in the wake of the Arab Spring.
In the tradition of Woody Guthrie Roger Fowler is a version of political activist, balladeer and true working class hero.
+1.
“But don’t kid yourself that none of us know
That when money disappears, where it all goes
You want our work ethic and you want us to strive
To fund gold-plated piss-pots on Paratai Drive”
– Verlaines, “Paratai Drive (a musical Ponzi scheme in one act)”
“Gladiators” by the Irish folksing Andy Irvine.
An inspiring song about the IWW activist the UK-born Tom Barker, who was in NZ during the 1912 Waihi strike and then moved to Australia where he fought conscription during WWI. He was deported and eventually ended back in the UK, where he became mayor of St Pancras, London, and famously raised the red flag on the town hall!
Lyrics here: http://www.andyirvine.com/lyrics/gladiators.html
Sound file (WMA) here: http://www.freightandsalvage.org/gladiators-andy-irvine
Thanks for that uke. I listened to it 2 or 3 times while I was doing some chores. It is a powerful song.
And as Jenny says below of balladeers, folk singers have been the traditional story tellers of ordinary people. I’m a bit of a history buff. Also the Gladiators song reminded me of the times in my youth that I hung out in folk clubs in Auckland, and occasionally in Sydney.
Irish folk songs have a long tradition of telling stories of working people (very apt for Labour Weekend). The bit in the song about working men fighting imperialist wars, reminded me of the Aussie singer Judy Small’s moving ballad about women’s experiewnce during the main imperialist wars: ‘Mothers, Daughters, Wives.
The best version of her singing it that I could find on yt, was this one – pity about the US-based images in the video (especially the flag waving at the end – wasn’t the intention of the song originally).
And while on yt I remembered this old ballad about Joe Hill – Joan Baez.
In ancient times balladeers played the role that the media now play. Setting stories and struggles and sagas to music and rhyme, spreading the news through songs and stories from town to town throughout the land.
Someone should write a song about Sam Kuha.
This got very little reporting, but I heard the news of Sam kuha’s victory over WINZ today on Radio NZ.
After being turned down for a food grant. And after a marathon electric scooter ride to his home and back to get a hammer. And after smashing the Windows at Work and Income to get attention to his plight. And after going on hunger strike. Sam Kuha has gained an extra $100 dollars a week in his benefit and a promise of an audience with the minister.
So far Paula Bennet hasn’t followed through on that promise.
But Sam is receiving the promised extra $100 per week. He says he can now afford luxuriess like an occasional cup of coffee.
Jenny have you listened to the radio lately.
its all whining gamines and jibber jibber crap music or all about me me me me me.
nobody thinks about anybody else but themselves these days.
its their choice.
But congrats to Sam Kuha.
I hear what you say.
You had to break the law to make the bastards pay.
only a hundred bucks for a little bit of gravy.
pull yourself together boy and go an join the navy.
Make up your mind dude and you could be an all black.
its al in th emind if you a job seeker.
dont talk back.
the futures looking bleaker.
Sam you are a hero.
you took it on the chin.
even for the people who said you couldnt win.
What, no Bad Religion yet?
Punk Rock Song
Let Them Eat War
Midnight Oil – Blue Sky Mine
The Living End – Roll On
Rage Against the Machine – Killing in the Name Of
Bruce Springsteen – Born in the USA
.
Cool thread – thanks all. My two cents: http://youtu.be/monyiOsoKxg
Dick Gaughan for me. “A World Turned Upside Down” about the 17th century Diggers which has huge parallels today; and also his song “Jamie Foyers” about a young Scotsman going off to “fight by the side of the people of Spain.”
Woody Guthrie’s “Deportees”, of course, Bob Dylan’s “With God on Their Side” and Pete Seeger’s “The Banks are made of Marble” which I once sang as a young man with Prof Jim Flynn. “I Don’t Want Your Millions, Mister” and “Which Side Are You On” which I sang with Kerry Burke who knew the good songs.
But the most powerful of all is “Hard Time Killing Floor Blues” by Skip James.
They say that the Left have the good songs (who knows of a good right wing song?) but that we lose the battles. Though I’m a performer of these good songs, I know I’d much prefer to win the battles…….
me and my guitar–Freddie King (Texas Cannonball)
*****
Prefer this version of common people, Joe Jackson complements Capt. Kirk
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x5m76m_william-shatner-sings-pulp-common-p_music
Then we have these, one from a sometime local resident from SOTD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUzd9KyIDrM
and a song warning of doing nothing
from one manic street preacher to another 😉
John Lennon – Working Class Hero
Lots to be sad and glad about too.
Mississippi John Hurt – Coffee Blues
Bessie Jones & The Georgia Sea Island Singers – Daniel in the Lion’s Den
Sippie Wallace – Women Be Wise
I was waiting for someone to put this one forward.
The Skids – Working For The Yankee Dollar
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCiWXktdyTQ
Never more than now do I feel this.
Proclaimers – Cap In Hand
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcWSpPkf78s&feature=BFa&list=PL16C6C523893D793F
Sentiments spoken clearly and articulately – and in our country we see it being sold and our citizens cold, hungry and homeless right here right now.
The Clash – Career Opportunities
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIuS2LCWNh8
170,000 jobs x 2 not coming to you soon
And of course the jobs they want you to have:
The Clash – Clampdown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQ82BX0hGBM&feature=BFa&list=AL94UKMTqg-9AUJdqfLbbKKTPskvU2_GNq
Lastly two New Zealand classics. One for the ignoring of current day poverty and the other about the shitty attitude to the enviornment and the controlling of water by private interests.
Blam Blam Blam – There is no depression in NZ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HVogejKx_c&feature=related
John Hanlon – Damn The Dam
eve of destruction–barry maguire
from the left-threaded nut job 😉
(big ups to DLT and Che Fu)
Are you Lost in The Supermarket? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWtylSdKSfA
Dylan-Infidels
Third Day-“I will always be true”
Fleetwood Mac- “and I Go Insane, without our Silver Springs”
Icehouse- “Can’t help Myself”
Tull- Pibroch-Cap In Hand
Bob Segar-Turn The Page (or Metallica)
Pearl Jam
Kate Bush-“Man with the Child in His Eyes”
Byrds sing Dylan
Emmy-Lou “All My Tears”
Heart-Magic Man
Concrete Blonde-Scene of a Perfect Crime; Ship Song; It’s A Mans World (James Brown)
God Is A Bullet
Bob Marley-Buffalo Soldiers
Glen Campbell-Try A Little Kindness
Dolly Parton-Silver Dagger (trad.)
Van Halen-Human Beings
Florence and The Machine, well that’s What The Water Gave Me
Cranberries
Plant and Krauss-Raising Sand-“Please Read The Letter…Through The Morning, Through The Night.”
Neil Young-Cortez The Killer
Cash-“if I were a carpenter…”
Cat Stevens-Into White
Gillian Welch “I Want To Sing That Rock and Roll”
Deep Purple-“When A Blind Man Cries”
Jimmy Lafave- “Shelter From The Storm”
Portishead-‘It’s A Fire”
Unbelievable Truth- “Settle Down” to a steady state economy
Who-Love’s Not For Keeping
Happy Mondays- Hallelujah
ELP- Lucky Man
Blondie-Union City Blue
Steppenwolf-The Pusher and the SnowBlind Friend
Floyd-Us and Them
Pixies-This Monkey’s Gone To Heaven
Now!, for the last freakin time (before I get arrested)
Thought that given the current position of NZ that someone would cover and update the lyrics or sample this to a current setting ??
The Blams and Muldoon !!!!!
Here it is: “We Have No Ambition For New Zealand” – Don McBrashen And The NACT Party Chorus
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEg357pGTvI
and/or
http://thestandard.org.nz/without-ambition/
“We have no ambition for New Zealand
We’re just making money for our friends
We have no ambition for New Zealand
We’ll be gone when it comes to an end
Oh, and everybody’s talkin’ about John Key’s smile
Everybody’s talkin’ about John Key’s smile
But don’t you look into his eyes
You’ll see what made Bill English cry
We’ll sell your Health System
We’ll sell your Kiwibank
We’ll sell your ACC
Look that way >>>>>>
You won’t see, you won’t see
No, no,
We have no compassion for New Zealand
Food parcels are all for lazy bums
We have no compassion for New Zealand
Even if welfare helped Key’s mum
Oh, while everybody’s talkin’ about plastic boats
We’re handing out your money to the Old School Coats
You see, it’s not just cream that floats
We’re hoping you won’t care or notice
We’ll gut your Kindy schools
We’ll drill some oil wells
We’ll kill your workplace rights
Can’t you see?
Something smells, something smells
Oh, oh,
We have no ambition for New Zealand
One more term we’ll get the things we want
We have no ambition for New Zealand
Hide the money in Dunne’s bouffant
DUNNE’S BOUFFANT!”
A round of applause to you Adders! Choice.
an update of the blamers classic:
There is no depression in New Zealand;
there are no sales of our farms,
There is no depression in New Zealand;
we can all keep perfectly calm,
Everybody’s talking about poverty;
everybody’s talking about poverty,
But we’re as comfortable as can be,
there’s no hungry kids in this country
We have no dole queues, we have no Kiwi rail,
we have no asset sales, we have no private jails, private jails, no, no
There is no depression in New Zealand;
There are no bribes to Hollywood
There is no depression in New Zealand;
we sleep in a well made bed
O Everybody’s talking about poverty;
everybody’s talking about poverty,
But we’re as comfortable as can be,
there’s no unrest in this country
We have no John Banks, we have no John Key,
we have no secrets; we have no GCSB, GCSB,
There is no depression in New Zealand;
there are no sales of our farms,
There is no depression in New Zealand;
oh we can all keep perfectly calm,
perfectly calm, perfectly calm, perfectly calm, perfectly calm…
I love this! “An Anthem of Denial”. A request that it be our National Anthem…very fitting.
Neil Young ” Rockin in the free world”
Doobie Bros. “Taking it to the Street”
the band–aint no more cane on the brazos.
Mr President…Pink
The Times They are a Changing…..Dylan
Ballad Of The Working Man – Saxon
Chillies’ “give it away give it away give it away now”
(the witches get their “power” from the “world”; The White Wizard from Above)
-Sir Ian (Gods and Monsters)
“What’s The Story, Morning Glory?”-Oasis
Last Chance Texaco-Joni
Even Better Than The “real thing”- U2
(Nobody’s Fault But Mine)-Lead
White Magic For Lovers-“El President”
The Verve-Urban Hymns
-Space and Time
-Weeping Willow
Mazzy Star-Amen
(No Talking Just Head)
WPA Blues–Sonny Terry
One of the most powerful political songs of the 21st Century must surely be Ibrahim Qashoush’s famous song;
“It’s time for you to go Bashar!”
Sung before a vast crowd in Hama and posted on the internet Qashoush’s song half rap half traditional raga went viral, inspiring ordinary Syrian people to take up arms to depose the regime, especially after Qashoush was cruelly murdered, his throat cut. The words of Qashoush’s song are spray painted on walls and chanted in pro-democracy protests across the country, recordings even played in armed clashes with the army.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkFgzF6-gxs&feature=related
Very late in the piece I know, but no-one else has posted the powerful, sad, chilling, ‘Maralinga’ – by Paul Kelly.
Based on testimony from the Aboriginal victims of the Maralinga atomic tests.
This one is huge: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8AjgWyxJAGQ
Home Brew – Listen to us
Salt of the Earth–The Rolling Stones.
Some of my fav protest songs over the years:
Of course, NZ fav, French Letter by Herbs. Defined a significant period in my development & it has a cool laid back vibe. Still listen to it and feel the strong message it contains.
“Look our any window”, Bruce Hornsby. One of the first enviro songs I heard growing up, be aware of whats going on around you. Like above helped define some of my thinking.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOoq1-ib2vg&feature=related
“Way it is”, same artist. Issues of poverty and race in the US. Some impact on my political views.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlRQjzltaMQ
Living Colour – social issues in the US 1980s/90s
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xxgRUyzgs0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6V5VkMqM07s
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2nnfonratU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7FX6sAL0Zw
Razorlight “America”. Whether or not about the issue, captured the mood of the GFC & the Bush years.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPrqhPqLNcw
Jeff Simmonds – Let’s Shut Down Waihopai. Very contemporary NZ protest song. esp with Key & GCSB. A good song as well.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tygCA75r30k
Rain coming down and the roof won’t hold’a
I lost my job and I feel a little olda
Car won’t run and our love’s grown colder
Work your fingers to the bone
Wadda y’ got…..?
Boney fingers, boney fingers
Grass won’t grow and the sun’s too hot
The whole damned world is just about shot
You might as well like it cos’ it’s all that we’ve got
Work your fingers to the bone
Wadda y’ got…..?
Boney fingers, boney fingers