
Martin Luther King, Jr. was an American civil rights leader, a Baptist minister, a husband, and a father of four. His ambition and relentless dedication to racial equality, education, and economic injustice not only made him one of the most influential figures in American history but also placed him on top of the FBI’s list of most dangerous people after his renowned “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963.
He would be labeled “The Most Dangerous Negro” in the country for his radical views and ability to mobilize others. At this point in history, America severely struggled with systematic oppression, discrimination, and racism. Dr. King’s powerful words and messaging would begin to unify minorities and like-minded allies from all walks of life including politicians, business owners, educators, students, community leaders, actors, athletes, journalists, and musicians.
The energy of the civil rights movement was infectious and captivating. Many supported Dr. King’s efforts as they too longed for positive change and progressive advancements. A new era was dawning as songs that represented hope, and freedom began to emerge from some of the music industry’s biggest acts. From Sam Cooke’s "A Change is Gonna Come" to Bob Dylan’s "Only a Pawn in Their Game," people from around the world were beginning to come together with ideas of deconstructing old ideologies of hate and prejudice by replacing them with unity, social justice, kindness, and love.
King would later be assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee on April 4th, 1968, shocking the world and leaving millions heartbroken in despair. His legacy would continue to impact music, politics, education, and the world for generations to come.
As music evolved and Hip Hop was birthed, songs such as “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, NWA’s “Express Yourself” and Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power," inspired artists in the 80s and into the early ’90s while records like 2Pac’s “Changes (That’s Just the Way It Is)” and Dead Prez’s “We Want Freedom” kicked off the new millennium.
Today, artists such as KRS-One, Common, Nas, and Killer Mike continue to carry on tradition by bringing awareness to social, political, and economic issues throughout their music and documented actions.
As Hip-Hop endures, leading as music’s most impactful genre, MLK’s dream continues to actualize as fans from across the globe, from all races, religions, and backgrounds come together in harmony, free of judgment of their skin color and driven by the undeniable power of music.

Sir Wryter is a Hip-Hop Artist, CEO of Sync & Excel, DC for 16th Letter Productions/ 16th Letter Worldwide Publishing, Executive Licensing Coordinator for Rhymez LLC, and Father of two.
Rhymez is a Hip-Hop catalog dedicated to producing authentic Hip-Hop and Rap music across the various styles of the genre. Some of its composers worked with major artists such as RZA of Wu-Tang Clan, Busta Rhymes, KRS-One, G-Unit, and the late Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes of R&B superstar group TLC. Check out their music HERE.
Celebrate MLK Day 2025 with music hand-picked by our team of music directors.
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