The Connection Between Music and Culture in “Soundtrack for a Revolution”

Ivano Milo
Jul 20, 2017 · 2 min read

“Soundtrack for a Revolution” is a film that tells the stories of the people involved in the Civil Rights Movement in the 60’s. The film looks at the stories and conditions of the movement, and then showcases various artists performing the music written about elements of the story.

Much of the music were “negro spirituals” which one of the speakers of the film describes as “powerful stuff.” He speaks of the oral tradition of singing these spirituals being a rich part of the history of African American culture. Through the familiarity and passion involved in these spirituals, the music served to inspire the people involved in the movement, giving them words to stand behind and songs to sing together. It was a way of spreading the word and excitement of the movement far and wide.

The music also educated listeners of the grievances and injustices commited by those against whom the movement was started. This was more of a learning experience for the listeners. This lit the fire for people who may have been more indifferent about the movement.

This type of music was often performed at churches, but later at rallies and in the streets. It was a very far reaching communal type of music. The sound is either very spiritual and traditional with the focus on group vocals, or fell more in line with the folk stylings of the time, with just a guitar and vocals. The people performing this music came from all backgrounds and walks of life, and there was little getting in the way of anyone who wanted to involve themselves with the music.

This film was interesting. I enjoyed seeing the music performed in a modern sense by artists, and seeing the passion and emotion that these pieces hold. I felt like a part of the community while watching these performances.

)