Nina Cried Power (feat. Mavis Staples)

Hozier's song 'Nina Cried Power' featuring Mavis Staples is a powerful tribute to the legacy of protest and activism in music. The song opens with the line, 'It's not the waking, it's the rising,' which sets the tone for the entire piece. This line suggests that true change and awakening come not just from becoming aware of issues but from actively rising against them. The song emphasizes the importance of action over mere awareness, urging listeners to move beyond passive recognition of injustices to active resistance and change.

Throughout the song, Hozier pays homage to various artists who have used their music as a form of protest and empowerment. Names like Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, Curtis Mayfield, and James Brown are mentioned, each of whom has a history of using their platform to speak out against social injustices. By invoking these names, Hozier connects the struggles of the past with the present, highlighting the ongoing need for voices that challenge the status quo. The repeated refrain, 'And I could cry power,' serves as both a declaration and a call to action, encouraging listeners to find their own power and use it to effect change.

The collaboration with Mavis Staples, a legendary figure in her own right, adds another layer of depth to the song. Staples' history with the civil rights movement and her powerful voice lend authenticity and gravitas to the message. The song's lyrics also explore the idea that the obstacles we face are not just physical barriers but also the fears and divisions that keep us apart. By focusing on the 'rising' rather than the 'waking,' Hozier underscores the importance of overcoming these internal and external obstacles to achieve true progress.

'Nina Cried Power' is more than just a song; it's an anthem of resistance and a tribute to the enduring power of music as a tool for social change. It reminds us that the fight for justice is ongoing and that each of us has the power to contribute to that struggle. The song's message is clear: it's not enough to be aware of the issues; we must rise and take action to create a better world.