The Spark: 6 socially conscious musicians on the women who inspire them

In times of crisis and upheaval, we've found ourselves especially grateful for music that speaks to the political and social issues of our moment. This year, facing the uncertain future of reproductive rights, turbulent midterm elections, continued climate catastrophe and the ongoing pandemic, we wanted to better understand how artists make music that directly confronts current events. So as part of Turning the Tables, NPR Music's project about the history of popular music, we asked a handful of musicians a question: Who taught you that music could be a vehicle for social change?

Below, you'll find links to all the videos we made, featuring six visionary artists: S.G. Goodman, Adia Victoria, Kathleen Hanna, Sadie Dupuis, The Linda Lindas and Moor Mother. They each told us a story about a pivotal musician who taught them that it's possible to write great songs that speak out against injustice and challenge entrenched systems of power.