Does anyone know any songs that have a history behind them/explain an event in history? (ie Sweet Home Alabama, American Pie)

Question

Does anyone know any songs that have a history behind them/explain an event in history? (ie Sweet Home Alabama, American Pie)

Much thanks!

Check these sites for a few songs that have a history and/or explain an event.

http://bensguide.gpo.gov/3-5/symbols/yankee.html

http://www.dover-kent.co.uk/words/blue_birds_over.htm

http://www.pipeline.com/~rgibson/overcomehistory.html

http://www.instantknowledgenews.com/johnny.htm

http://www.150.si.edu/chap3/flag.htm

(Broken Link Removed)

http://folkmusic.about.com/od/folkmusic101/qt/LandYourLand.htm

Thank you.

Do you know any modern ones?

I'm sorry -- but I'm not familiar with current popular songs. But -- you can Google the names of some and add song history to your search term.

thanks

Niel Young wrote "Southern Man" And as a reprise to it his friend, Lynard Skynard wrote Sweet Home Alabama. they even performed them together in concert.

Answer 1

That's a great example! "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd is indeed a song that references a historical event. The song was written as a response to Neil Young's songs "Southern Man" and "Alabama," which criticized the racism and segregation in the southern United States. Lynyrd Skynyrd's song defends the South and its southern pride, while also acknowledging that there were still problems to be addressed. This interaction between the two songs sparked a conversation about race relations and regional identity in America. It's fascinating how songs can be inspired by, and even contribute to, the historical and cultural dialogue of their time.