“Cause I’m Black and I’m proud
I’m ready and hyped plus I’m amped
Most of my heroes don’t appear on no stamps
Sample a look back you look and find
Nothing but rednecks for four hundred years if you check”
The concept of “Fight The Power” originated when director Spike Lee approached Public Enemy about composing an anthem for his 1989 film Do The Right Thing. The tune ended up being used prominently throughout the film, which was a riveting and controversial examination of racial tension.
Chuck D’s inspiration came from the Isley Brothers’ 1975 protest classic of the same name, including the refrain of “We’ve got to fight the powers that be.” The lyrics touch upon similar themes of fighting against oppression, but Chuck D updates the lyrics to give it a modern backdrop.
The song also appeared on Public Enemy’s influential 1990 album, Fear of a Black Planet. The tune continues to be an endearing anthem of black empowerment and enlightenment. It also addresses issues of cultural appropriation and the importance of learning about and celebrating black history and culture.
A new remix version featuring Nas, Rapsody, Black Thought, Jahi, YG, and Questlove was recorded for their 2020 album What You Gonna Do When the Grid Goes Down? If authoritarian forces continue to abuse their power, this anthem will continue to resonate.