The Role of Songwriting on Social Change and Personal Reflection

I lived in Dubai for a large portion of my childhood, and would fall asleep listening to the call to prayer. I remember lying in my bed thinking how beautiful it was that so many people at that exact moment were listening to music and had their intention towards the specific words that were being sung. It planted a seed of hope for humanity in me, that we could use songs to literally get on the same vibrations through music and intentions through lyrics… at five years old I honestly believed that benefit concerts might save the world. I still believe that.

The power of music is undeniable. It's the language of the soul, the soundtrack to our lives, and, for many of us, the way we navigate the world. At its core, songwriting is about more than just creating a catchy tune. It's about capturing the essence of human experience—the joy, the pain, the triumphs, and the struggles—and turning it into something universally relatable. As a songwriter and somebody who helps others write their own songs, I’ve come to understand that music holds the power to heal, to challenge, to provoke thought, and to inspire change.

Songwriting has always, and will continue to, change the world. It is a force that shapes cultures, movements, and even history. The way songs resonate with listeners can transcend borders, generations, and even languages. It’s a timeless tool for communication, and I truly believe that, now more than ever, songwriting will continue to be a driving force in changing the world for the better.

The Role of Songwriting on Social Change

One of the most profound ways songwriting has impacted the world is through its role in social and political movements. Think of the iconic protest songs of the 1960s—Bob Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin’”, or the power of Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On”. These songs weren’t just music; they were a call to action. They voiced the collective frustrations, hopes, and desires of the people. And because they were wrapped in music, they had the power to reach the masses in ways that speeches or written manifestos simply couldn’t.

As a songwriter, there’s a unique privilege (and perhaps intimidation) in knowing that your words can create a ripple effect. A song can be the spark that ignites change in individuals, communities, and even entire nations. Look at “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley—those simple words, "emancipate yourself from mental slavery," have inspired generations of people to break free from the chains of oppression, both physical and psychological.

More recently, songs like Beyoncé’s “Formation”, Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright”, and Childish Gambino’s “This Is America” continue that tradition of using music to speak out against racial injustice, police violence, and systemic inequality. These songs don’t just entertain; they demand attention and accountability, challenging listeners to reflect on the world they live in and to take action for change.

Songwriters today, especially in a time where we face multiple crises—climate change, political instability, racial inequality—are more equipped than ever to bring important issues to the forefront of global discourse. With social media amplifying voices like never before, songs can quickly go viral, spreading messages across the globe in real-time. Songwriting can amplify voices and build community around causes we are passionate about. The global youth movement around climate change is a great example of how modern songwriting can fuel awareness and action, with artists like Billie Eilish and Greta Thunberg using their platforms to create dialogues around the urgency of environmental activism.

Songwriting as a Tool for Personal Reflection and Emotional Healing

Songwriting isn’t just about changing the world on a large scale—it’s also a deeply personal tool for transformation. There is something therapeutic about songwriting, whether you’re the one writing or the one listening. Songs can process grief, celebrate joy, confront fears, or express love in ways that sometimes words alone cannot. Can you think of a song that has helped you through a difficult time? Or a time when a song has been the best possible soundtrack for a transition in life? Oh my goodness, think of yourself in middle school…. song lyrics and the big feeling adolescent years go hand in hand.

When I first started writing (a lovely little diddy with my sister and best friend called “Philiphobia” … the fear of love… yes, we were very clever, no, you cannot hear this song) I was often driven by personal experiences. It’s cathartic to put your emotions into words and find a melody that resonates with those feelings. Over time, I began to realize that these personal stories, when shared, could create a sense of solidarity and connection. A song that might have started as a reflection of my own heartache could end up touching someone else who felt the same, creating a shared experience. My latest album, The Gathering, talks about my transition to motherhood, the joy it brings, but also the pain and confusion. Each time a mother reaches out to me to say they feel seen or understood it makes me glad I had the bravery to write the song and then to share it.

Songwriting allows us to look inward, to reflect on our own experiences, and then outward, to see that we are not alone in those feelings. It connects us on an emotional level, creating a sense of shared humanity. That’s a powerful thing, and it’s why songwriting will continue to be a healing tool for individuals and communities alike.

The Future of Songwriting in Social Change and Personal Reflection

As we move further into the 21st century, the landscape of songwriting is evolving in new and exciting ways. Technology has opened up endless possibilities for music creation and distribution, and I believe it’s going to keep changing how songs are written, heard, and experienced.

The rise of digital platforms and social media has democratized music-making in a way we’ve never seen before. Anyone with a smartphone can write, record, and share a song. Artists no longer have to go through traditional gatekeepers—record labels or radio stations—to reach an audience. This means more voices, more diverse perspectives, and more innovation. We are now hearing music from parts of the world that, just a decade ago, would have been difficult to access. While streaming platforms make it harder for artists to make a living, other platforms, like patreon, make it easier for fans to support their favorite artists in a direct way. (This is a little nudge to go find your favorite artist on patreon and give them $1 a month… when you do that, you support them 250 times more than one stream on spotify!)

The tools we have at our disposal also mean that songwriters can experiment with new forms of expression. The boundaries of genres are becoming more fluid, with artists blending everything from classical to electronic, from folk to hip-hop. AI-driven technology is also beginning to play a role in the songwriting process, offering new ways for musicians to collaborate and create. While this may sound like the beginning of the end for traditional songwriting, I believe (well, I hope)  it’s actually a new beginning. As songwriters, we can use technology as an extension of our creativity, enhancing the ways we tell stories.

Songwriting’s Timeless Impact on Society and Self

Ultimately, the beauty of songwriting is its ability to transcend boundaries. Music speaks a universal language, and as our world becomes more interconnected, the opportunity for songs to spark global movements becomes even greater. Whether it's tackling climate change, advocating for human rights, or simply offering comfort in times of hardship, songs have the power to unite people, amplify voices, and change the world.

As Nina Simone says, “It’s an artist's duty to reflect the time” We can expand this reflection to say it’s an artist's duty to influence the time. As songwriters, we have a responsibility to use our craft to not only entertain but also to inspire and challenge. We have the power to shape narratives, to challenge the status quo, and to offer new ways of thinking about the world around us. In doing so, we can continue to create songs that not only reflect the times we live in but help shape a better, more compassionate future. To be a global force for good.

So, to all the songwriters out there—whether you're writing in your bedroom or performing on the world stage—never underestimate the power you hold. Songwriting is a force for change, and its impact on the world will only continue to grow in the years to come.