musicians

Check out the work of some inspirational people inovating for democracy!
These folks and projects have no affiliation with Votecraft – we’re just posting them because they’re awesome! 

Jesse Welles

Known for writing and performing politically engaged songs that address current events.

Website

Jen Shyu

American experimental jazz vocalist, composer, multi-instrumentalist, dancer, and producer.

Website

Benjamin Booker

Released his album Lower in early 2025, featuring the politically charged single “Black Opps”.

Website
Sofia Isella

American singer-songwriter and music producer known for her politically charged music.

Website

Musicians can make a lasting impact on democracy by using sound to inspire, unify, and provoke thought. Music has always played a vital role in movements for justice—amplifying truths, building solidarity, and giving voice to those often unheard. Whether through protest songs, instrumental compositions that evoke resilience, or performances that create space for community and dialogue, musicians can cut through noise and reach people emotionally. You don’t have to be on a big stage to make a difference—a song shared online, a verse offered at a rally, or even a jam session rooted in hope can energize collective action and shift the civic mood.

CHECK OUT A workshop

People’s Music Network

  • Winter Convergence (NYC) – January 24–26, 2025

  • Summer Gathering (Groton, MA) – May 23–25, 2025

  • Trans-Atlantic Song Session: Songs of Freedom & Struggle – July 13, 2025 (12:00–2:00 PM ET)

These gatherings include song circles, workshops, and performances centered on music for justice and social change.

 Berklee College of Music – Songwriting & Social Change

  • Offered as part of the Spring 2025 semester (January to May 2025)
    This course explores the history and practice of songwriting as a tool for protest, social commentary, and movement-building. It’s available to Berklee students.

Title Track Michigan – Collaborative Songwriting for Collective Liberation

    • Sessions held throughout 2025 (dates vary)
      This community-based workshop series brings people together to co-create songs rooted in justice and liberation values.

inspirational projects

  • HeadCount
    A nonpartisan nonprofit that sets up voter registration booths at concerts by major artists like Beyoncé and Olivia Rodrigo. They’ve registered over 1 million new voters, especially among young people. https://www.headcount.org/

  • Rock the Vote
    Founded in 1990, this campaign leverages music and pop culture—like PSAs with Madonna and R.E.M.—to boost youth voter engagement. It gained major attention during the 1992 and 2008 elections. https://www.rockthevote.org/

  • #iVoted Concerts / Music Votes Coalition
    A voter mobilization effort that hosts online and in-person concerts tied to elections. They use artist-led campaigns and polling-station selfies to drive engagement. https://www.ivotedconcerts.org/

  • Dance Music for Democracy (DM4D)
    A nonprofit that runs voter registration booths at dance music events. Their Civic Sound System and DM4D Drops programs bring registration into nightlife spaces. https://www.dm4d.org/

How can you to be involved?

Help us raise awareness—explore creative ideas, learn more,
 or support the work through our emporium.