WEEK 4 - song choice

Nina Cried Power – Hozier ft. Mavis Staples

I have chosen this song to create a music video for as it reflects on the classic forms of protest songs in a timeless manner. Because of this wide interpretation and application of the song’s context, it gives me lots of potential for the subject of my music video. Originally, the song was inspired by the civil rights movement and is a tribute to Nina Simone. The song also mentions other significant musicians who influenced the movement and music genre, such as Billie Holliday, Curtis Mayfield and Patti LaBelle. When asked about the song, the artist - Hozier – stated; “[It’s] a suggestion that the battle for equality these artists championed remains an ongoing and necessary one. “The fights that took place 100 years ago or 200 years ago for whatever — civil rights or workers' right etc. — don’t stop.”

The artist of the song often portrays social messages through their songs and accompanying music   though its video, and ‘Cherry Wine’ calls attention to domestic violence through the lyrics and its video.  Because of this I feel that they were a right choice as they translate their views on human rights through their work, meaning that their songs hold more meaning and have a personal connection behind them.