Inspired by love songs for mankind, and the words of Christ telling us to “love one another”. And the words of the ancient biblical prophet Micah “God has told you humans what is good, and what the Lord requires of you, is to do justice, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” - although you don’t need to be a Christian to listen, this playlist should inspire all to reflect, and appreciate the deep unity we share as the human race, listen and allow your mind to reach peace and brotherly [or sisterly] affection for your fellow humans.
[Extended Version] contains more generic love songs, we hope listeners apply to a broader audience in the spirit of brotherly and sisterly affection.
Creator: Ama Antwi-Saki (Sociology and Human Rights)
1. Colors of The Wind (From Pocahontas) - Tori Kelly Version
Our first pick speaks to the nature of removing stigma, focusing on our similarities rather than our differences. Bonding over what is shared bringing feelings of unity, gratitude and brotherhood [or sisterhood].
2. What the World Needs Now is Love - Dionne Warwick
Love for one another, care for each-other despite differences, and nurture each other’s wounds, “what the world needs now is love, sweet love, no not just for some, but for everyone” a simple message, for a greater world. Devoid of racial injustice and inequality, it begins with love, empathy, acceptance.
3. I Was Made For Loving You - Tori Kelly (feat. Ed Sheeran)
Although originally a romantic ballad, love comes in all forms and expressions - Tori Kelly's 'I was made for loving you' can be applicable to friends, family and neighbours and strangers. A reminder to care for those within our communities, cherish, and look after one another.
4. We Are The World by U.S.A for Africa
We Are The World is another simplistic reminder as to why inequality and injustice ought to be systemically dismantled and removed, they are man made and ultimately can be destroyed because we are the world. And we create the better conditions for a fairer, more equitable and equal society.
5. Like I’m Gonna Lose You - Meghan Trainer (feat. John Legend)
A reminder that life is fleeting, love those around you, and care for those in the community like with the knowledge the opportunity won't always be there. Love like you'll lose them, in that way you'll love fully.
6. Love Me Now - John Legend
'Love me Now' a reminder to live in the moment, and love those around us whilst we can and when we can.
7. Kill Em with Kindness - Selena Gomez
Peaceful protests can be just as powerful, and more effective than violence - Selena’s “Kill em With Kindness” is a timely reminder of this fact. “The world can be a nasty place, you know it, I know it, yeah. We don’t have to fall from grace - put down the weapons you fight with, and kill em with kindness”.
8. Family Tree - Ramz
"If you know bout them' then you know bout me" - Ramz's family tree celebrates his long lasting friendships "from primary right through secondary", a reminder that family is chosen and to cherish those around us and make our own families through community.
9. Happier - Marshmello & Bastille
'Happier' reminds listeners to think selflessly, in a self-centred world where 'living your best life' is promoted, it can be a sobering reflection to remember to also care for others in a selfless manner, sometimes putting their needs above of own. Communities who promote selflessness create less inequality, as those who have give to those who do not.
10. Hold On - Justin Bieber
“Take my hand and hold on” Bieber reminds us of how brotherly [and sisterly] understanding, gentleness, guidance, patience and affection goes a long way. Without understanding one another, and having the patience to guide and listen we won’t be humanity.
11. Beloved - Raquel Norland
A beautiful ballad reminding listeners they are "more than your pain - wonderfully made, beloved". In this broken world of inequality and injustice, this sweet melody is kindly reminder of self-worth.
12. Love Runs Deeper - Gregory Porter (feat. Cherise)
Potter's 'Love Runs Deeper' is yet another simplistic message that through life's various challenges, love overcomes and persists.
13. Flowers - Kelly Rowland
A reminder for everyone that they can do better, and appreciate the people in thier lives more by giving them their 'flowers' (recognition) for their love and support. "And I keep sayin' one day i'ma show you one day, - you know you gon' get all of your flowers, I'll let you know it every time I get the chance".