Framing the climate emergency: the role of music in extinction rebellion

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper addresses the role of music in Extinction Rebellion (XR), a radical environmental movement founded in the UK in 2018. Through an analysis of the lyrics and sound of 80 songs (which comprise XR’s ‘Rebellion Song Book’) XR’s music is presented as both a purposeful strategy (i.e. a framing mechanism) for articulating core grievances and their accompanying solutions, and as a binding mechanism that works to reinforce solidarity and collective identity among members. The results show that XR’s songs reflect the broader messaging of the movement – that environmental degradation has caused a climate emergency and that unless immediate action is taken to address this an ecosystem collapse awaits humanity. As well as clear grievances emerging in the lyrics, solutions to these are articulated (through stressing the importance of heeding science and organizing citizens assemblies to steer government decisions); and calls to action are made (through calling for rebellion). The paper shows that while XR’s music can inspire collective action to address climate issues, an equally important function is that it can engender emotional responses in both those who sing and listen to it, bringing members together and reinforcing a form of collective identity and solidarity, and thus strengthening the cohesion of the movement.