“Double Dare Ya” -Bikini Kill

As if you weren’t already suspecting such a fury-fueled band like Bikini Kill would end up in this list—the only question is: Which song to pick? “Double Dare Ya” comes as one of many anthems of the late 90s Riot Grrrl movement, declaring that women do indeed have rights—and Kathleen Hanna “double dares” them to exercise them in a shrill, raucous voice. The feminist movement hasn’t necessarily been host to many explosive songs, but that’s not to say it’s any less important.

“Homeless” -Paul Simon

There’s a lot more to Paul Simon than “Sounds Of Silence.” In his most successful solo album to date, Graceland is a worldly political masterpiece gaining critical acclaim and contempt alike. Collaborating with South African group Ladysmith Black Mambazo, one of the most prominent male choruses from the region, Simon put together a heart-wrenching record featuring traditional South African instruments alongside his masterful narrative to create a musical apartheid-focused anecdote. “Homeless” features lyrics in Ladysmith’s leading lad Joseph Shabalala’s native tongue, Zulu, and the decadent harmonies Paul Simon is so well known for.

“Rockin’ In The Free World” -Neil Young

What political playlist is complete without a little Neil? Similar to Bruce Springsteen’s pseudo-patriotic track, “Rockin’ In The Free World” seems as sweet and wholesome as apple pie. But a closer listen to the lyrics reveals stories of despondent single mothers and rampant homelessness. In classic Young fashion, Neil uses this tune to shed light on a grand issue—while also distracting us from it.