Speaking up for communities facing injustice is always a necessity. We rely on our people, when governments and institutions fail us. Musicians throughout the decades have been able to channel our rage, pain, and exhaustion in their artistry and creativity. Their music is what gives us hope, and the reassurance that we are not alone and have more power when we stand up for one another.
Here are just a handful of some great artists in the Punk, Metal, and Alternative genres that have been using their musical platform to inspire change and action.
This trio of Indonesian women are shattering stereotypes with their fiery metal and bold message. The Sudanese word for “noisy,” Baceprot is a testament to the captivating and unapologetic music they play- a mix of heavy rock, metal, and punk. Performing notable covers from artists like Rage Against the Machine, to their own creations- these brave young artists use their music to reach audiences on a global scale. Despite receiving criticism from various communities and numerous online hate, this trio continues to speak on environmental injustices, gender equality, and freedom of expression with their sound. With harmonious vocals and magnetizing riffs, VOB continues to make music that is a vital reminder of courage.
Based out of London, this duo (Bobby Vylan & Bobbie Vylan) are a collision of grime, punk rock, hip hop, and spoken word. Their lyrics cover social and political issues from institutional racism to the corruption of governments. Bob Vylan is able to speak on significant issues faced in Black and other marginalized communities, while using elements from different genres to create a sound with substance. Their long-standing opposition of the genocide of Palestinians, and outspoken resistance to Fascism has caused defamatory criticism, including getting their visas revoked in the US while on tour. Despite this, the duo remains steadfast in using their voice to speak up on the injustices of other people. Most recently cited in an instagram post, “it is incredibly important that we encourage and inspire future generations…let us display to them loudly and visibly the right thing to do when we want and need change.”
This alternative Afro-Punk band from Texas taps into the social commentary of marginalized people with a fuse of punk, soul, and electrifying riffs. Using their visceral talent and creativity, these four siblings create powerful imagery in their music videos and on stage. They effortlessly give us an outlet to feel seen, vibe, (and scream!) In their most recent album, American I(CON), they call out this country’s evils, from incessant corporate greed to the pharmaceutical industry and their manipulation of people. WDRL uses their glowing melodies to reach listeners in an authentic way, illuminating all emotions with their artistry.
Based out of NYC, this four piece, Black woman fronted band combines elements of old school punk and hardcore. Their band name is a reminder of the history of the thousands of Black residents violently displaced in Oscarville, Georgia. Taking on the heavy issues from racism to the working class struggle, Lake Lanier is an unstoppable force in the punk scene. They’ve played several shows in New York, including the Black Punk Now Fest in 2024, celebrating the book of the same name by James Spooner, founder of AfroPunk. Their hardcore rebellious lyrics and gutsy sound reminds us of the true spirit of punk–defiance against oppressive systems, while celebrating the beauty of community.
We can’t talk about bands that are for the people without mentioning the legendary group, the Muslims. This all all-queer, Black & Brown Muslim punk band from North Carolina has been throwing up a middle finger to Fascism since 2017. Their album ‘Fuck These Fuckin Fascists’ is full of catchy anthems that use humor, rage, and a little bit of hope to convey how we are not giving up in this cruel world. Unapologetically themselves, they speak on issues from misogyny, gentrification, and police brutality.
Based out of Florida, this lively multi-instrumentalist performs Ska and Punk, with influences from hip-hop, jazz, and emo. Their YouTube channel, Skatune Network is full of your favorite covers with a Ska spin, performed right from their home. Jer Hunter uses perspective as a Black, queer, and non-binary creator, making songs with fiercely political messages about the issues around us. Their latest album, ‘Death of the Heart’ has a special sound that draws from subjects like capitalism, systematic injustice, and overwhelming feelings in an oppressive world. But with their use of vibrant sounds and smooth-energetic riffs, they compel listeners to remain hopeful in the path to liberation. They remind us of the necessity of community, having fun, and the importance of seeking joy in these times.
This blazing four piece, Black, Trans, and Queer-led hardcore group is a hot mention in the world of punk. Hailing from Philadelphia, Soji (aptly named “the crown received”) uses metal, thrash, and alternative influences to create a radical sound. Reflecting on the housing crisis, womanism, police brutality, and racism- this band gives us sharp chaos-fueled energy with a message. In their most recent album, SOJI Vs. Winter Wolf, they team up with the Harlem rhythm punk band, Winter Wolf, for a high-energy collaboration. With a vibrant intensity, this split EP is a reminder to take care of each other, when all other systems fail us.
These are only a few of the many Alternative artists we’d like to put the shine on for their creative talent and dedication to making the world a better place for all. What are some of your favorite artists who are using their platform for change?
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