Top five political songs of 2008

December 31, 8:01 PMBoston Young Democrats ExaminerDan McDowell

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Alright, so the year is coming to end in about four hours. I thought I'd take a time out to spotlight some of my favorite songs that have a political background, whether overt or subtle. As you will notice, most of these have liberal leanings. Whether that's due to the bands I listen to, the ire many feel towards the Bush administration, or the lack of many bands with conservative leanings I don't really know, nor do I think it really matters. That said, 2008 was a good year for political music, the elections finally took place, it was Bush's last full year in office, and there is hope the war in Iraq will come to an end. Be warned, as these songs are political many contain some strong language use.

That said, here are my picks in no particular order (weird huh?):

1)Same Thing by Flobots (Fights with Tools)

    The Flobots don't mince words. Every song off Fights with Tools is overtly political, making charges against politicians and an apathetic and complacent voter base. Same thing makes demands of politicians while pointing out regime changes, wars, and possible injustices committed at the hand of and/or under the watch of the American government

2) Hands Held High by Linkin Park (Minutes to Midnight)

    An obvious stand against the war in Iraq and President Bush highlights this song by Linkin Park. Behind it all is a powerful anti-war message and incredulous belief at how the world now views the U.S. because of Bush and his policies. Not to mention a call to the American people to wake up and get involved, even if it means being disliked by those in power, or their supporters. And while doing all this, it seems to serve as a rallying cry to support our troops, but that does not mean we must support the war or the person making the final decisions, in this case, George W. Bush.

3) Hero of War by Rise Against (Appeal to Reason)

    This song is a stand against war in general. As the song opens it seems to be an ode to patriotism and soldiers who served this country. In its own way it is, but focuses on the higher calling of peace, and how it is a higher calling than any draw patriotism could have. It goes beyond simply protesting the war by outlining the possible events a single soldier could go through during the war in Iraq and the War on Terror. The song is incredibly moving and powerful, and has earned it's spot on this list.

4)Stand Up by Flobots (Fights with Tools)

    The song quite simply speaks for itself. Give it a listen and take a look at the lyrics to see for yourself.

5)Collapse (Post-Amerika) by Rise Against (Appeal to Reason)

    You would never guess through the name that this is a call to action about global warming and environmental issues in general. It is a call to lead the way on environmental issues and try and prevent the events described in the song. We are a fossil-fueled, oil-driven nation. We have made no real commitment or plans to lower emissions, and perhaps it is for this reason Rise Against chose the title they did.

Sorry for the lack of variety, but no one said my favorites had to be diverse. I wish you all and your families a happy new year, and wish you all the best in 2009.

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