With the 2016 Presidential Election being one of the most polarized elections in a long time, it can be difficult to find the light during such a stressful night for our country. However, the best way to get over that election anxiety is to vibe it out with some fun America-themed tracks that also bring to light some of the issues on the minds of voters all over the country today. The following are just a few of my favorite songs that come to mind when I’m trying to find some positivity in this year’s election.
- “American Oxygen” by Rihanna
This was the first song I added when I decided I didn’t want the playlist to be overly depressing. The upbeat tempo and Rihanna’s strong verses create the perfect balance between something you can just sway to but still raise your fist during the chorus as she sings about the struggle to get the real “American Dream.”
- “Revolution” by The Beatles
It’s impossible to make an American playlist without the British invasion, right? “Revolution” is a classic hit by the Beatles that gets any party in the mood for political change. Although, most of the songs on this playlist have been made after the year 2000, this one couldn’t be left out of the party.
- “Alright” by Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar’s album “How to Pimp a Butterfly” became an instant hip-hop classic when it was released in 2015. His album brought racial injustice issues in our country to the forefront. One of his first singles from the album “Alright” not only became the theme song for a lot of Black Lives Matter protests across the country but gave a lot of Americans hope for social injustice, along with a catchy chorus and infectious beat to back it up.
- “New Americana” by Halsey
As millennials, everyone has been telling us how much this election will affect us. However, half of us can’t vote so the best we can do is air our grievances in other ways (like writing about it for VOX) or making amazing songs like this one that reflect the country we plan to create once our future becomes a reality.
- “Fight the Power” by Public Enemy
This is another classic from when most of our parents were teens or sliding into their 20’s. “Fight the Power” is an anthem that’s impossible not to feel. The lyrics in this song are powerful enough to get every generation in the room on their feet.
- “Donald Trump” by Mac Miller
The title of this track alone made it perfect for a playlist celebrating the 2016 election. Mac Miller’s” Donald Trump” is fun and is a chance for us to take one of the most controversial presidential candidates a little less seriously.
- “Can’t Stop” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
This fun classic rock tune keeps the party going so no one falls asleep before the announcement of the results. Whether you know the words or not, hearing the beginning guitar riffs is enough to bring everyone back to their senses.
- “American Idiot” by Green Day
This song is another classic that went from being just a song to a Broadway musical. It also reflects how some citizens see this year’s choices for president. Especially if you are still undecided on Election Day, this song may ease the pain.
- “National Anthem” by Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey’s “National Anthem” is one with some very deep lyrics hidden behind an equally chill vibe. Lana’s soothing voice tells the influence of money and power in a country that is supposedly equal for all.
- “Rosa Parks” by Outkast
This uptempo song brings some historical context to the party. The Atlanta natives take one of America’s most recognizable civil rights moments and turns it into an instant hit for today’s music listeners.
Destine loves to dance and all forms of art.
