Source: Interim Archives / Getty
Despite his life being cut short much earlier than most would have expected, MLK’s impact still lives on to this day. King, who would have celebrated his 95th birthday last week (January 15th) bravely fought for the things he believed in, equality and human rights. His tireless pursuit of those things resonated with people around the world and still do to this day. His vision of progressiveness amongst all people and his outlook on life in general have inspired countless people after him to follow their dreams and to fight for what they believe in, no matter the circumstance or situation.
The impact that Martin Luther King Jr. had on this world can’t ever be overstated. MLK Day was established as a federal holiday in the United States on November 2nd, 1983 with the first observance taking place on January 20th, 1986. Although today (January 20th) is the official day we honor and celebrate his legacy, any day we can give the loving father, husband and scholar his flowers, we should. Check out a gallery of rappers who obviously agreed with that sentiment and decided to pay homage to the iconic civil rights leaders in music form. These songs exemplify how hip-hop artists have engaged with Dr. King’s legacy, using his messages to inspire and inform in their music. The music not only honors MLK, but also contextualizes his legacy with modern social movements, personal reflections and ongoing racial struggles. Let us know your favorites and if you think we are missing any.
1. Kendrick Lamar – HiiiPower
Source:Kendrick Lamar
This track features Lamar reflecting on the influence of MLK Jr., Malcolm X, and other civil rights leaders.
2. J. Cole – No Role Modelz
Source:J. Cole
Cole mentions MLK Jr. in the context of his Dreamville label, highlighting the impact of King’s dream on his own aspirations.
3. Public Enemy – By The Time I Get To Arizona
Source:Channel ZERO
This politically charged song critiques Arizona’s refusal to honor MLK Jr. Day, using King’s legacy as a focal point for social commentry.
4. Jeezy ft. Jay-Z & Nas – My President Is Black (Remix)
Source:Dawilliams13
Jay-Z references MLK Jr. in the context of African American progress, drawing a line from King’s activism to the election of Barack Obama.
5. Common – A Dream
Source:beheard
This song samples MLK Jr.’s ‘I Have A Dream’ speech, intertwining King’s vision with Common’s reflections on racial equality.
6. Killer Mike – Michael & the Mighty Midnight Revival
Source:Killer Mike
In this album, Killer Mike continues his exploration of music as a transformative and religious experience, reflecting on themes of perseverance and faith.
7. The Game – Dreams
Source:The Game
The Game references MLK Jr. when discussing his own dreams and aspirations, drawing a connection between the civil rights movement and personal achievement.
8. Common ft. Will.i.Am – I Have A Dream
Source:SevenCent
Common samples Dr. King’s ‘I Have A Dream’ speech to reflect on social justice and the continued struggle for equality.
9. The Roots ft. Busta Rhymes, Joell Ortiz, Nate Ruess – My Shot (Rise Up Remix)
Source:The Roots
This remix of a track from Hamilton mentions MLK Jr. and focuses on perseverance and resilience, with Busta Rhymes shouting out MLK as an inspiration.
10. The Game ft. Nas – Letter To The King
Source:GlidingSquares WAV
In this collaboration, both The Game and Nas reflect on King’s legacy, paying tribute to his fight for civil rights while addressing contemporary social issues.
11. Common & John Legend – Glory
Source:Common
Written for the movie Selma, which chronicles MLK’s march from Selma to Montgomery, this powerful song won an Academy Award and directly honors King’s legacy in the fight for justice.
12. T.I. – King
Source:T.I.
T.I. names this album after MLK Jr., with various tracks alluding to King’s influence and the fight for equality, reflecting on personal and societal struggles.
