The Power of Music: Listening to Alabama’s Civil Rights Movement

Music was a powerful tool during the Civil Rights Movement, uniting protesters and reinforcing their fight for racial equality. In this talk, music historian Chloe H. Smith draws from historical recordings and oral histories to explore the role of protest songs in Alabama’s civil rights activism. Singing together strengthened morale, especially in response to violent events like the 1961 Freedom Riders’ bus burning and the 1963 Birmingham church bombing. These songs connected civil rights protests to a history of African American resilience and envisioned a brighter future. Analyzing musical artifacts allows deeper insight into the movement’s historical, social, and spiritual dimensions.

Chloe Smith is a PhD Candidate in Music History at Yale University. Her research centers on folk and popular music in the U.S. South, particularly as dimensions of Civil War memory. Since her undergraduate studies at Samford University, Chloe has explored musical responses to racial violence in 1963 Birmingham. She grew up in Anniston and has worked as a music teacher and violinist for several years.

This program is open to all guests at no charge. Admission to the exhibit halls is available for purchase at the front desk or online at www.exploreAMAG.org.