In the groove: How music is a catalyst for social change

📅 Published: August 26, 2025

📰 Source: thestandard

Curated by AllZimNews.com

In songs such as Maruza Imi, Hondo yeminda, Nyika Yedu yeZimbabwe, Nzira Dzemasoja and Roger Confirm he showed us through his music that society can be changed as the masses tried to absorb the meanings behind such songs.

While music has always been a means of pushing the boundaries of expression, it’s clear that the world isn’t expressing itself in the same way.

The various musical trends we’ve seen in just this lifetime provide an insightful look into what is and isn’t being discussed in some cultures.

Leonard Zhakata on the other hand, in songs like Mugove and Hupenyu Mutoro resonated with the majority of the suffering masses in Zimbabwe Obviously, Thomas Mapfumo started his revolutionary singing during and after the Smith regime.

Songs like Corruption and Mamvemve were seen as being critical of the regimes that followed, resulting in his harassment and decision to relocate outside of Zimbabwe.

For now, we have Winky D who is also a marked man for his social commentary in songs such as Ibotso and Njema which the current regime is not keen on.

Music has long been a powerful tool for social change, serving as a voice for the marginalised, a catalyst for protest, and a vehicle for inspiring collective action.

Throughout history, songs have been used to galvanise movements, raise awareness about pressing issues, and challenge the status quo.

In fact, music long assisted those working to win civil rights for African Americans.

Freedom songs, often adapted from the music of the black church, played an essential role bolstering courage, inspiring participation, and fostering a sense of community.

Music has shaped cultures and societies around the world for generations.

It has the power to alter one’s mood, change perceptions, and inspire change.