Bob Schwartz

They will not force us
They will stop degrading us
They will not control us
We will be victorious
–Muse, Uprising

Don’t wanna be an American idiot
One nation controlled by the media
Information age of hysteria
It’s calling out to idiot America
–Green Day, American Idiot

Resistance is a project, not a moment. Let the midterm election victories be a joyful encouragement, an inspiration, a pointer to possibilities. It is not over.

Resistance has a soundtrack. Two of many examples are Uprising (2009) from Muse and American Idiot (2004) from Green Day. There are plenty of others over decades of pop music, from the gentlest and most lyrical to the loudest in your face and up against the wall. (Speaking of moments, less than a year ago, Green Day was allowed to perform American Idiot at the Super Bowl, possibly the most American event, which hinted at how the next election might be turning out.)

Why is resistance forever? Because oppression is forever. Why is resistance music forever? Because when we are listening, singing and dancing together, we are stronger, more resolute and…happier.