Plug in those headphones and get ready to jam. International music star, father, and humanitarian Rocky Dawuni – our ONE Girls and Women curator – put together the ultimate “woman-power” playlist. From Tupac to Chaka Khan, Rocky tells us in his own words what each song means to him.
Photo credit: Glen Wilson.
1. “I’m Every Woman” – Chaka Khan
This is such a beautiful song of individuality and independence – a song that conjure’s strength, sensuousness and liberation all at the same time.
2. “Extraordinary Woman” – Rocky Dawuni
This is a song that I wrote as an ode to womanhood. It is a song of appreciation for the women who have helped make me a better man. It expresses the transcendence that love brings to a true relationship .
3. “Sweet Mother” – Prince Nico Mbarga
This song was the ultimate “homage to motherhood” anthem when I was growing up in Ghana. All the men always sung this song at the top of the voices.
4. ” Keep Ya head Up” – Tupac Shakur
This was one of the songs that was instrumental in shifting the perspective of women in rap songs for me.
5.”No Woman No Cry” – Bob Marley
This is a song of represents comfort, assurance and hope. Everything will be all right….
6. “I will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor
This represents to me, reaching and finding that inner power to rise above it all.
7. “Whats Love Got to Do With It” – Tina Turner
This song represents strength, courage and the importance of establishing a true identity. Tina turners delivery on this songs exudes such power and grace.
8. “Let it Be” – The Beatles
This song is a prayer of affirmation. It is a song that instills hope and faith . Its true musical soul food.
9. “PRIDE: In the Name of Love” – U2
Martin Luther King represented equality and respect for all, and this song is one of my favorite songs for self reflection and empowerment.
10. “Petit Pays” – Cesária Évora
Cesária was the voice and musical mother of Cape Verde. This song is about her country captures nostalgia. This was the soundtrack during my daughters birth.
Join Rocky Dawuni as he takes over ONE Girls and Women all month!
What songs inspire you or make you think about the world in a different way? Leave us a comment!