[2025] Anti-war songs in Western music: Songs that pray for peace

Boom!System Of A Down

System Of A Down – Boom! (Official HD Video)

System of a Down is an alternative rock band that has gained worldwide popularity for its powerful messaging.

They have many songs about global social and political issues, and their work is highly regarded for its ideological depth.

One of their classic anti-war songs is Boom! While anti-war songs are often framed with philosophical lyrics about the state of the heart, this track is different.

It’s a highly realistic masterpiece that argues the world’s fundamental economic systems are what generate war.

United Strike BackGogol Bordello & Friends

United Strike Back – Gogol Bordello & Friends

A lineup of members from legendary bands like Green Day, Dead Kennedys, Fugazi, and Agnostic Front came together to create the standout track “United Strike Back.” This song is a charity single for Ukraine that sings of anti-war ideals and peace.

It not only speaks to those suffering from war, but also shows compassion for those who go to fight to defend their country.

In fact, proceeds from the track are reportedly being used to support Ukrainian soldiers who have lost limbs in the war.

If you’d like to support Ukraine, don’t just listen—consider purchasing the song.

Dance On GasolineMåneskin

Måneskin – Stand Up For Ukraine [HD]

Gasoline used as fuel for weapons.

If it’s going to be used to kill people, then we’ll dance on it—so goes the song Dance On Gasoline.

It’s a track by the Italian rock band Måneskin, released in April 2022, written for the Stand Up For Ukraine campaign in support of Ukraine.

They also performed it at Coachella, the major music festival held in the United States.

Regarding how the song came about, the members of Måneskin said that when the invasion of Ukraine began, they felt that conveying unity through music was what they should do.

With a gritty rock sound only they can deliver, the song expresses anger toward war and a strong resolve not to yield to it.

What Are You Fighting ForPHIL OCHS

What Are You Fighting For

The legendary folk singer Phil Ochs.

He was a folk singer who was very active in the 1960s and, much like Shogo Hamada in Japan, created many works with anti-war themes.

Among Phil Ochs’s songs, the one I especially recommend is What Are You Fighting For.

As the title suggests, the lyrics ask why we must take each other’s lives—what it is we are fighting for.

I-Feel-Like-I’m-Fixin’-to-Die RagCountry Joe and the Fish

Country Joe McDonald The “Fish” Cheer/I-Feel-Like-I’m-Fixin’-to-Die Rag Woostock

Country Joe and the Fish is a psychedelic rock band fronted by lead singer Country Joe McDonald.

Known as a socially conscious band, they gained popularity with their biting, ironic lyrics.

One of their signature songs is I-Feel-Like-I’m-Fixin’-to-Die Rag.

It’s an anti–Vietnam War song featuring powerful lyrics laced with black comedy.

Be sure to check it out.

OneMetallica

Metallica: One (Official Music Video)

Metallica, a heavy metal band immensely popular in Japan as well, has produced numerous masterpieces, some of which carry an anti-war theme.

Among them, I’d like to highlight “One.” This song was modeled after the protagonist of the film “Johnny Got His Gun,” and, following the film’s storyline, it portrays an anti-war message.

Although it’s an anti-war song based on a work of fiction, its content is just as serious as anti-war songs focused on current events.

Be sure to check it out.

Put Down That WeaponMidnight Oil

Midnight Oil – Put Down That Weapon (Official Video)

Midnight Oil’s “Put Down That Weapon,” a single from their landmark album Diesel and Dust, has continued to impact listeners worldwide since its 1987 release.

The song places strong emphasis on the issues of violence and the need for nuclear disarmament, carefully crafting a message that truly resonates.

Especially amid today’s rising geopolitical tensions, the track takes on new meaning.

Midnight Oil’s passionate yet finely balanced call for peace offers a powerful prompt to confront the problems facing the world.

Highly recommended for all listeners who long for a world without war!