Music is like one of the common universal languages that bring all of us together no matter where we are. Music has the ability to spread messages of love, sadness or even bring out the hidden talents of dancing -or the lack of- that we didn’t know existed. In light of celebrating youth month, here are my top 5 songs that promote gender equality.

“Flawless” – Beyoncé feat. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie 

This is special because it includes Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s monologue from “We Should All Be Feminists” that highlights society’s toxic gender norms that promote gender inequality like “We teach girls that they can have ambition, but not too much”

Flawless touches on gender inequality while also being a confidence booster by emphasising how beautiful women are, even after waking up. 

“Born this way” – Lady Gaga 

Lady Gaga is unapologetic about being a feminist, and as much as female empowerment is important, it’s not about supporting only one kind of woman. 

In this song, Lady Gaga encourages and inspires everyone from different backgrounds, to be true to themselves and live their best lives as they see fit – because we are all perfect just the way we are. 

“Extraordinary” – D’Banj 

When asked in an interview what “extraordinary” was about, D’Banj confidently said he dedicated the song to every extraordinary woman out there.

The song doesn’t only promote the value of women in society, but it also raises awareness for gender equality and empowerment.

Same Love – Macklemore & Ryan Lewis 

The LGBTQIA community is still one of the most discriminated in the society that we live in. Macklemore tries to spread the message of understanding and accepting the LGBTQIA community because everyone deserves the right to be treated equally. 

Where Is The Love? – The Black Eyed Peas 

This song was released in the early 2000s and the question it poses is quite simple – where is the love? It’s important for us to love and protect each other from harm, regardless of knowing each other or not, because we are all worthy of being respected and cared for. 

Always remember to spread love to everyone you meet, regardless of their gender because love is a stronger emotion than hate!  

What do you think of my playlist, Choma? I hope I have inspired you with these songs that promote change, freedom (to be who you are) and equality. So, the next time you’re feeling down or defeated, listen to these songs to give you the much-needed boost.

Remember, if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).