As big of a figure it is, the issue does not seem to get enough support. Many artists are known to have written music that directly touches up on poverty and its consequences like hunger, homelessness, etc. Amongst the songs that I chose, ‘Fast car’ by Tracy Chapman’ is a classic. This song is about the deeper reality of poverty existing both physically and mentally. In addition, It's about hopes and dreams for a better life and escaping the suffering. Thus, this line in his song sticks out to me the most ‘finally sees what it means to be living’. Furthermore, Another great artist was Tupac Shakur. He was known to produce music with a message touching on several topics including poverty and people of color. His great track ‘changes’ expresses how poverty is such a common issue in society. Moreover, he makes connections between being dark skinned and being poor. He says ‘I’m tired of being’ poor and even worse I’m black’. He also goes on to explain how poverty leads to crime when he says ‘My stomach hurts, so I’m lookin’ for a purse to snatch’.
Many other artists who did not make it to this list speak about poverty through their music. They try to do more than just sing to attract attention to the issue. Artists like Beyoncé and Jay-Z are known to hold and perform at benefit concerts to bring awareness to global issues like poverty.
Michael Jackson - WE ARE THE WORLD - HD STEREO - USA for Africa. Justin Bieber - Pray. Akon - Ghetto (official video) 2Pac - Changes ft. Talent. Tracy Chapman - "Fast Car"