14 songs for Human Rights Day in SA

In the years leading up to the advent of democracy in 1994, artists such as Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Abdullah Ibrahim, Johnny Clegg and Brenda Fassie, among many others, led the fight against apartheid with their music and activism. While in exile, Masekela, Makeba and Ibrahim continued to release protest songs despite the censorship laws back home, sensitising the West to the inhumane treatment of people by the apartheid government. Artists outside of South Africa like Youssou N'Dour, Stevie Wonder, Peter Gabriel and Eddy Grant also joined the chorus to speak out against the regime.

Since 1994, music has continued to play a major role in the fight against police brutality and socio-economic oppression, with many artists continuing the work of the aforementioned greats.

In honour of Human Rights Day, we have put together a playlist of protest songs that speak to social injustice and human rights abuses, while honouring the anti-apartheid actors who dedicated their lives to freedom. 

Bring Him Back Home (Nelson Mandela) by Hugh Masekela

It's Wrong (Apartheid) by Stevie Wonder

Ndod'emnyama (Beware Verwoerd) by Miriam Makeba

Black President by Brenda Fassie

Fire in Soweto by Sonny Okosun

Never Again by Prophets of Da City

Nelson Mandela by Youssou N'Dour.

Asimbonanga by Johnny Clegg and Savuka

Sun City by Artists United Against Apartheid

Gimme Hope Jo'anna by Eddy Grant

Sizophelelaphi by Oskido & Msaki

Biko by Peter Gabriel

Tutu by Miles Davis 

The End Is Near by Malopoets