The effect that a simple song can have on the world is real and tangible. The power of words, whether sung or spoken, can change minds, can move people to action. Great songs can crystallise a moment in time, or encapsulate transition in culture. They influence events and alter the course of history. The ten songs in this book have changed the way people think and act and in so doing have changed the world. Music author June Skinner Sawyers explores the social and cultural legacy of each song. She offers a compelling in-depth history, including the circumstances under which each song was written and first performed, and then explores its lyrical and social content. She also delves ino the critical and popular response to the song as well as the reactions of subsequent generations. Including a discussion of 100 additional noteworthy songs, this book shows how we should never underestimate the power of music. The 10 Songs: Amazing Grace -- We Shall Overcome -- Strange Fruit -- Hound Dog -- Blowin in the Wind -- I Want to Hold Your Hand Respect Imagine -- Anarchy in the UK -- Rapper s Delight