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

Too Young To DieJamiroquai

Jamiroquai – Too Young To Die [Official Video]

“Too Young to Die” is a track included on Jamiroquai’s debut album, Emergency on Planet Earth, by the British acid jazz band that represents the UK.

Released as a single in 1993, it reached number 10 on the UK Singles Chart.

It’s an anti-war song addressing the Gulf War, which lasted for five years starting in 1990.

The track features Jamiroquai’s signature mellow yet groovy sound—a driving funk tune that’s so cool it makes you want to get up and dance.

WatergunRemo Forrer

Remo Forrer – Watergun | Switzerland 🇨🇭 | Official Music Video | Eurovision 2023

Remo Forrer’s “Watergun,” by the Swiss singer, delivers an anti-war message where the innocence of the past intersects with harsh reality.

Performed as Switzerland’s entry in Eurovision 2023, the song reminds listeners of the importance of peace and resonates with those who offer heartfelt prayers amid conflicts around the world.

The piercing cry, “We don’t wanna be soldiers,” captures the authentic voice of the younger generation, and its superb melody and lyrics, which say no to all conflicts worldwide, are something we Japanese can also relate to.

One DayMatisyahu

Matisyahu – One Day (YouTube Version)

Matisyahu’s 2008 release “One Day” has garnered tremendous support as a song filled with a wish for peace.

Conveying hope for a future where violence ends and equality prevails through a powerful melody, the track gained further attention when it was used as NBC’s theme song for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

Its lyrics and beat resonate deeply with listeners, delivering a universal message of peace.

Especially in difficult times, this song offers us a ray of hope.

Blowin’ in the WindBob Dylan

Bob Dylan – Blowin’ in the Wind (Official Audio)

A song by Bob Dylan, who has earned accolades such as the Grammy Awards and the Academy Awards, been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and drew attention in 2016 for becoming the first musician to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Known as an anthem of the American civil rights movement that took place in the United States from the 1950s to the 1960s, its message against unjust wars and discrimination garnered widespread support at the time.

Carried by a brisk yet wistful acoustic guitar sound, its powerful message continues to provoke questions and doubts about war even as times change.

It is an anti-war song that has long asked humanity what is truly necessary and important.

Walk On (Ukraine)U2

U2 – Walk On Ukraine – #StandUpForUkraine

U2’s latest album, Songs Of Surrender, was released in March 2023.

It’s a collection of particularly important songs from their long career, and Walk On (Ukraine) is one of the standout tracks included.

This song has always been sung when misfortune strikes the world; in fact, U2 offered it after the Great East Japan Earthquake as well.

This version has been arranged in response to the Russia–Ukraine war.

A song that has supported so many people will surely be a source of strength for those suffering in the war.

Peace SellsMegadeth

Megadeth – Peace Sells

Megadeth’s classic “Peace Sells” is a powerful anti-war and politically conscious work featured on the 1986 album Peace Sells.

.

.

but Who’s Buying?.

Dave Mustaine’s sharp social commentary explodes over razor-edged guitar riffs, profoundly stirring listeners.

Especially amid today’s unstable international climate, the song’s message has lost none of its relevance.

Beyond its provocative lyrics, its highly refined thrash metal sound has also earned wide acclaim.

As a voice calling for peace and understanding, it’s a track that deserves to be heard now more than ever.

Anti Establishment ManREO Speed Wagon

Anti Establishment Man

Released on their 1971 debut album, R.

E.

O.

Speedwagon, this track is a powerful rock number infused with an anti-establishment message.

Reflecting the social climate of the time, it carries strong social consciousness, including criticism of politicians and references to the Vietnam War.

It vividly expresses the early musical style and message of the American rock band REO Speedwagon and can be considered one of the key songs in their history.

Featuring standout vocals by Terry Luttrell and guitar work by Gary Richrath, this piece is sure to resonate deeply with those who hold anti-war and pro-peace sentiments.