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

MoshEminem

Mosh (Dirty Version) by Eminem | Eminem

Eminem’s “Mosh” is a powerful single from his 2004 album Encore.

The song lays bare his anger in confronting the policies of the Bush administration.

It’s not just an anti-war song; it functions as a forceful message that urges action.

In particular, its dramatic rhythm leaves a deep impression on listeners.

Combining Eminem’s calm, reflective delivery—setting aside his signature rapid-fire flow—with Dr.

Dre’s production, “Mosh” offers both the importance of taking action and the courage to keep thinking.

Break AwayFIREWIND

Firewind – Break Away (2020) // Official Lyric Video // AFM Records

This is a track from the self-titled album released in May 2020 by Firewind, a power metal band from Greece.

Its lyrics poignantly depict the inner turmoil of a soldier returning from the front lines, and the combination of Gus G.

’s virtuosic guitar work and Herbie Langhans’s powerful vocals leaves a deep impression on listeners.

As an anti-war song that conveys the tragedy of war and the preciousness of peace, it is sure to resonate with people around the world who are distressed by ongoing conflicts.

It’s a recommended listen not only for heavy metal fans but for anyone who longs for peace.

Wrong Side of HeavenFive Finger Death Punch

Five Finger Death Punch – Wrong Side Of Heaven

Five Finger Death Punch, a band enjoying widespread popularity in the United States, is known for songs marked by a distinct darkness and poignant emotion.

Featured on the album The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell, Volume 1, released in July 2013, this track depicts the anguish of veterans and the moral dilemmas of war.

It expresses the inner conflict faced after military service with a grand, powerful sound, evoking the loneliness and struggle of navigating situations where right and wrong are hard to discern.

The song carries social significance as a call to support veterans, resonating deeply with many listeners.

White Flag Warrior (ft. Tim McIlrath)Flobots

Flobots – White Flag Warrior ft. Tim McIlrath

The Flobots are a rap rock band from Colorado that gained popularity for their experimental musical style.

In addition to their authentic and adventurous rap rock, they also released socially conscious songs with strong messages, reminiscent of punk rock and emo.

White Flag Warrior (ft.

Tim McIlrath) is one of their works I especially recommend, centered on an anti-war theme.

Its message—that everyone must unite and tackle problems together for the sake of peace—teaches the importance of cooperation and compassion, while also revealing the folly of human nature.

Stories of a HeroFrank Marino

Stories of a Hero

The song released in October 2004 by Canadian guitarist Frank Marino weaves a profound story about war and heroism.

It portrays the parting of a young soldier and his wife, bravery on the battlefield, and the sorrow of one who never returns, vividly depicting the cruelty and sacrifice of war.

Blending elements of hard rock and blues rock, the piece—combined with Marino’s exceptional guitar work—resonates deeply with listeners.

While expressing a wish for peace, this song also serves as an opportunity to reflect on the impact of war.

Saigon BrideJoan Baez

Saigon Bride (Joan Baez)

Joan Baez’s moving classic “Saigon Bride” is an anti-war cry filled with the anxieties and anguish of 1967.

Its melody and lyrics shake the listener’s heart, resonating with the countless lives lost to war and the aching sense of a future happiness slipping away.

Baez, a leading American folk singer, spoke out with unwavering opposition to the Vietnam War, urging listeners to recognize the importance of peace.

Her gift for delivering political messages through music resonates all the more powerfully today.

This song—feared even by governments—continues to convey a longing for peace to many listeners.

Please, let this song help you feel that shared wish for peace.

Army DreamersKate Bush

Kate Bush – Army Dreamers – Official Music Video

This is a single released in 1980 by the British artist Kate Bush.

It’s a moving anti-war song that focuses on young soldiers who go off to the battlefield and lose their lives, and the grief of their mothers.

The distinctive vocals sung with an Irish lilt and the poetic lyrics leave a strong impression.

It is included on the album “Never for Ever,” and it reached No.

16 in the UK and No.

2 in Israel.

Its universal message, decrying the futility of war, still resonates deeply with many people today without losing any of its power.

It’s a classic I hope you’ll listen to when you want to reaffirm your desire for peace.