Music has always been political, encouraging artists to use their platforms to educate their audience on global political situations. With the 2020 presidential election fast approaching, Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders is turning to the indie music community for help.
As of July 2018, indie/alternative rock was most popular among 16 to 44 year olds in the United States, according to Statista. Vox reported most of Sanders’ support comes from 18 to 44 year olds, with 59 percent of 18 to 24 year olds favoring him over other candidates.
Bon Iver is among those who have performed alongside Sanders, most recently on Jan. 31 in Iowa. Vampire Weekend also joined Sanders in Iowa on Feb. 1 to perform an acoustic set.
Portugal. The Man, whose hit song “Feel It Still” was inspired by Sanders and his 2016 campaign, performed to a crowd of 2,000 at another rally in Iowa on Jan. 25. The Alaskan rock band are known political activists, asking Native Americans from every city they tour for permission to perform on their land.
The Strokes performed at Sanders’ Get Out The Vote Concert Rally in New Hampshire on Feb. 10. Despite being one of indie’s biggest acts of the 2000’s, The Strokes have been in the news recently due to the announcement of their first project since 2013, “The New Abnormal.”
“As the only truly non-corporate candidate, Bernie Sanders represents our only chance to overthrow corporate power and help return America to democracy. This is why we support him,” said lead-singer Julian Casablancas.
Sanders has also received public endorsements from the likes of Best Coast, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Local Natives and Young the Giant. (Sandy) Alex G also donated $500 to Sanders’ campaign recently, encouraging his fans to do the same.
Regardless of party: get educated, get inspired and get to the voting booths this November.