Music has always served as a powerful voice during times of conflict, and the Vietnam War era was no exception. Vietnam Songs became a defining feature of the period, reflecting the diverse emotions, protests, and reflections surrounding the war. These songs, spanning various genres, captured the zeitgeist of a generation grappling with war, peace, and social change. Let’s explore some iconic tracks that resonate with the Vietnam War experience.
‘War’ – Edwin Starr (1970)
Opening our list is the unmistakable protest anthem, ‘War’ by Edwin Starr. While the message is direct and potent – “(War, huh) yeah! (What is it good for?) absolutely nothing” – it’s the dynamic delivery that elevates this psychedelic funk and soul track. Starr’s captivating charisma and powerful ad-libs, combined with the compelling backing vocals, make it hard to believe this is a cover song. Starr truly embodies the track, turning it into a definitive anti-war statement.
‘Get Together’ – The Youngbloods (1967)
Next, we have ‘Get Together’ by The Youngbloods, a song deeply embedded in the ‘Flower Power’ movement of 1967. This track radiates themes of unity, harmony, and peace, perfectly encapsulating the sentiments of those opposing the Vietnam War and the societal divisions of the decade. The verses showcase delicate and vulnerable vocals, while the chorus is both yearning and uplifting, particularly with its plea to “try to love one another right now”. The outro serves as a powerful exclamation point, reinforcing the song’s desire for widespread solidarity and peace amidst the Vietnam conflict.
‘The End’ – The Doors (1967)
While its inclusion might be tangentially linked to the Vietnam War through Apocalypse Now, ‘The End’ by The Doors undeniably resonates with the era’s atmosphere. The song’s use in the film, accompanying scenes of napalm strikes, cemented this connection for many. The Doors, pioneers of classic rock, and their debut album epitomize the vibrant and rebellious youth culture of 1967. ‘The End’, the album’s intense closer, showcases Jim Morrison’s most profound lyrics and vocal delivery alongside Robby Krieger’s haunting guitar work. Its somber tone and underlying sense of resignation mirror the growing disillusionment with the Vietnam War, particularly after the Tet Offensive in 1968. This pivotal event exposed the unwinnable nature of the conflict to many in the USA, and ‘The End’ retrospectively captures the feelings of those deeply affected by the Vietnam War.
