Popular musicians during the 1980s, such as Sting and U2, wrote songs about the military dictatorships in Chile and Argentina and performed them at their concerts

Points Possible: up to 10

Introduction

Popular musicians during the 1980s, such as Sting and U2, wrote songs about the military dictatorships in Chile and Argentina and performed them at their concerts. If the people living in Argentina or Chile spoke the words in these songs, they would go missing. It was a powerful way for these artists to use their privilege to share the mothers of the disappeared story with the world. In fact, it was because of Sting’s song that I started reading books on this topic in high school.

Instructions:

• Watch the 3 links I included from YouTube.
• Read the song lyrics.
• Read the interview with Bono.
• Answer the questions below.
• Label your responses (Part 1 and Part 2).

Part 1: Sting and U2

Include at least 300 words answering the two questions below.

1. After watching the music video by Sting about the Chilean dictatorship and reading the lyrics, what did you notice that he included in his music video?
2. What specific message did U2 and Sting have in their lyrics about the situation in Latin America that most people were not aware of?

Part 2: Modern-Day Connection

Include at least 300 words answering the question below.

1. Music has a profound impact educating the world about social injustices. What role do contemporary artists play in airing contemporary global issues? What artists do you consider to be an important voice for liberty and justice today (domestic or international)?