Music has the power to inspire, to heal, and to bring people together. Throughout history, musicians and songwriters have used their art to raise awareness about important social issues and to advocate for peace and justice. From anthems of hope to calls for action, songs about peace and making a better world have become an integral part of the cultural landscape.
In this article, we will explore the top 18 best songs about peace and making a better world. We will showcase a diverse range of musical genres and highlight the artists who have used their voices to promote peace and social change. Whether you are a fan of classic rock, hip hop, or folk music, there is something for everyone on this list. These songs offer a message of hope and encouragement, reminding us that we all have a role to play in creating a better world for ourselves and future generations.
1. ‘What’s Going On’ – Marvin Gaye
“What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye is an iconic soul song that was released in 1971. The song is a socially conscious commentary on the turbulent times of the era, with its lyrics touching on issues such as war, poverty, and racism. Gaye’s smooth and soulful vocals, combined with the song’s uplifting melody and harmonies, create a powerful and timeless piece of music. The song’s message of unity and understanding is just as relevant today as it was over 50 years ago when it was released. “What’s Going On” has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless artists and activists to use their platform to speak out against injustice and inequality.
2. ‘Blowing in the Wind’ – Bob Dylan
“Blowing in the Wind” is a protest song written by legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan in 1962. The song’s powerful lyrics ask a series of rhetorical questions about war, freedom, and human rights, ultimately coming to the conclusion that the answers are “blowing in the wind.” The simple yet haunting melody, coupled with Dylan’s distinctive voice, gives the song a timeless quality that has made it an enduring classic. “Blowing in the Wind” has been covered by countless artists over the years, and its message of social justice and equality continues to resonate with audiences around the world. The song has become an anthem for the civil rights and anti-war movements, and its impact on popular music and culture is immeasurable.
3. ‘Imagine’ – John Lennon
“Imagine” is a song by legendary musician and peace activist John Lennon, released in 1971. The song is a simple yet powerful anthem for peace, love, and unity, with its lyrics imagining a world without borders, religions, or possessions. Lennon’s soulful vocals, accompanied by a gentle piano melody, create a sense of hope and inspiration that has resonated with listeners for generations. “Imagine” has become one of the most iconic songs in popular music, and its message of peace and unity continues to inspire people around the world to work towards a better future for all.
4. ‘Pipes of Peace’ – Paul McCartney
“Pipes of Peace” is a song by Paul McCartney, released in 1983. The song is a heartfelt plea for peace, inspired by a story McCartney heard about a ceasefire during World War I, when soldiers from both sides sang Christmas carols together. The song’s lyrics speak to the universal desire for peace and understanding, with McCartney’s signature melodic style and poignant vocals creating a sense of hope and longing. “Pipes of Peace” was a hit when it was released and has since become a classic in McCartney’s extensive catalog of music. The song remains a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and harmony in a world often plagued by conflict and division.
5. ‘Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth)’ – George Harrison
“Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth)” is a song by George Harrison, released in 1973. The song is a heartfelt plea for love and peace, with Harrison’s soulful vocals and intricate guitar work creating a sense of longing and hope. The song’s lyrics speak to the universal desire for understanding and unity, with Harrison calling for an end to the violence and turmoil that had characterized the era. “Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth)” was a hit when it was released and has since become one of Harrison’s most beloved songs. The song remains a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and compassion in a world often beset by conflict and division.
6. ‘One Love / People Get Ready’ – Bob Marley and the Wailers
“One Love / People Get Ready” is a reggae classic by Bob Marley and the Wailers, released in 1977. The song is a fusion of two iconic songs, with Marley’s original lyrics blending seamlessly with those of Curtis Mayfield’s “People Get Ready”. The song’s message of unity and love is embodied in its uplifting melody and catchy chorus, with Marley’s distinctive vocals and the Wailers’ rhythmic instrumentation creating a sense of joy and hope. “One Love / People Get Ready” has become an anthem for social justice and equality, inspiring generations of activists and musicians to work towards a better future for all. The song remains a timeless classic, beloved by fans around the world for its message of hope and unity.
7. ‘Peacekeeper’ – Fleetwood Mac
“Peacekeeper” is a song by Fleetwood Mac, released in 2003. The song is a plea for peace and understanding, with its lyrics speaking to the need for people to come together in a spirit of harmony and compassion. The song’s melody is a haunting and beautiful blend of acoustic and electric guitars, with Stevie Nicks’ distinctive vocals providing a sense of longing and urgency. “Peacekeeper” was a hit when it was released and has since become one of Fleetwood Mac’s most beloved songs. The song remains a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and unity in a world often plagued by conflict and division.
8. ‘I Wish You Peace’ – The Eagles
“I Wish You Peace” is a song by The Eagles, released in 1975. The song is a heartfelt expression of the band’s desire for peace and understanding, with its gentle melody and harmonious vocals creating a sense of hope and tranquility. The song’s lyrics speak to the universal desire for love and compassion, with The Eagles wishing peace to all those they encounter in life. “I Wish You Peace” was a hit when it was released and has since become one of the band’s most beloved songs. The song remains a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and harmony in a world often characterized by conflict and division.
9. ‘All You Need is Love’ – The Beatles
“All You Need is Love” is a song by The Beatles, released in 1967. The song’s catchy melody and memorable lyrics have made it an enduring classic, with its message of love and unity resonating with generations of listeners. The song was written as part of a global television broadcast, with The Beatles hoping to use their platform to promote a message of peace and understanding. “All You Need is Love” has since become an anthem for social justice and equality, inspiring countless people around the world to work towards a better future for all. The song remains a timeless classic, beloved by fans of all ages for its message of hope and love.
10. ‘Peace Train’ – Cat Stevens
“Peace Train” is a song by Cat Stevens, released in 1971. The song is a stirring call for peace and understanding, with its upbeat melody and catchy chorus inspiring a sense of hope and optimism. The song’s lyrics speak to the universal desire for unity and love, with Stevens’ soulful vocals and rhythmic guitar work creating a sense of joy and harmony. “Peace Train” was a hit when it was released and has since become one of Stevens’ most beloved songs. The song remains a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and compassion in a world often beset by conflict and division.
11. ‘Zombie’ – The Cranberries
“Zombie” is a powerful song by the Irish band The Cranberries, released in 1994. The song was written in response to the tragic killing of two young boys in an IRA bombing in Warrington, England, and is a powerful protest against violence and war. The song’s haunting melody and Dolores O’Riordan’s emotive vocals create a sense of anger and sorrow, with the lyrics condemning the senseless loss of life in conflicts around the world. “Zombie” was a commercial success when it was released and has since become one of The Cranberries’ most iconic songs. The song remains a powerful reminder of the human toll of war and violence.
12. ‘Where Is The Love?’ – Black Eyed Peas
“Where Is The Love?” is a song by the Black Eyed Peas, released in 2003. The song is a poignant critique of the state of the world, with its lyrics touching on issues of war, poverty, and discrimination. The song’s catchy beat and chorus have made it an enduring hit, with its message of love and unity resonating with listeners around the world. “Where Is The Love?” is a call to action for people to come together and work towards a better future for all. The song remains a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding in a world often characterized by conflict and division.
13. ‘For What It’s Worth’ – Buffalo Springfield
“For What It’s Worth” is a song by Buffalo Springfield, released in 1966. The song was written in response to the protests and unrest in the United States during the mid-1960s, with its lyrics speaking to the sense of frustration and confusion felt by many young people at the time. The song’s driving rhythm and Stephen Stills’ emotive vocals capture the energy and urgency of the era, with its lyrics calling for people to come together and work towards a better future. “For What It’s Worth” has since become an anthem for social justice and remains a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right.
14. ‘Star Spangled Banner’ – Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix’s rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” at Woodstock in 1969 is a landmark moment in music history. Hendrix’s electrifying guitar performance turned the national anthem into a protest song, with its screeching feedback and distorted sounds conveying a sense of chaos and unrest. Hendrix’s version of the “Star Spangled Banner” was a powerful statement against the war in Vietnam and the societal divisions of the era. The song has since become an iconic moment in popular culture, representing the power of music to transcend boundaries and speak to the issues of the time. Hendrix’s rendition of the national anthem remains a testament to the power of protest and the enduring legacy of the 1960s counterculture.
15. ‘Fussing and Fighting’ – Bob Marley
“Fussing and Fighting” is a song by Bob Marley, released in 1973. The song speaks to the challenges faced by many people in relationships, with its lyrics exploring themes of communication, conflict resolution, and love. Marley’s distinctive vocals and the song’s groovy rhythm make “Fussing and Fighting” a memorable and engaging listen. The song’s message of the importance of working through problems and finding common ground resonates with listeners around the world. “Fussing and Fighting” remains a classic of the reggae genre and a testament to the enduring legacy of Bob Marley’s music.
16. ‘Holiday’ – Green Day
“Holiday” is a song by the American rock band Green Day, released in 2005. The song’s politically charged lyrics criticize the war in Iraq and the Bush administration, with its chorus urging listeners to “hear the sound of the falling rain” and “come around and have another round on me.” The song’s punk-inspired sound, featuring driving guitars and energetic vocals, perfectly complements its rebellious message. “Holiday” became a hit for Green Day and remains a fan favorite, serving as a powerful anthem of protest and resistance. The song’s message and energy have continued to resonate with listeners in the years since its release.
17. ‘Peace’ – Taylor Swift
“Peace” is a song by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, released in 2020 as part of her album “folklore”. The song explores themes of love, relationships, and finding peace within oneself, with its introspective lyrics reflecting on the challenges of maintaining a relationship in the public eye. The song’s gentle acoustic melody and Swift’s emotive vocals create a contemplative and intimate mood. “Peace” showcases Swift’s songwriting skills and vocal range, and its message of acceptance and understanding resonates with many listeners. The song continues to be a fan favorite and a testament to Swift’s evolution as an artist.
18. ‘World Peace is None of Your Business’ – Morrissey
“World Peace Is None of Your Business” is a song by English singer Morrissey, released in 2014 as the title track of his tenth solo album. The song’s lyrics take a critical stance on the state of the world, with Morrissey suggesting that “the rich must profit, and get richer / and the poor must stay poor”. The song’s title challenges the listener to consider their own role in creating a more peaceful world. Musically, the song features Morrissey’s signature baritone vocals and a driving rhythm section, with elements of rock and electronic music. “World Peace Is None of Your Business” serves as a powerful and thought-provoking commentary on contemporary society.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
