There are a ton of songs about tolerance and understanding people. That is the heart of tolerance, understanding someone’s point of view or opinion and being able to tolerate it even if you disagree.
Songs About Tolerance
These are only a few of the songs we’ve found and there are plenty more out there (the world of music is endless). If you find a song you think deserves to be on this list, then please leave a comment below!
So here are some of the best songs about tolerance!
Human Rainbow – Johnny Clegg & Savuka
Human Rainbow is an Afro-pop song written with a focus on the struggle against apartheid. For anyone unfamiliar, apartheid was a system of legislation that upheld segregation. Trying to get rid of apartheid and the struggles of dealing with it made life harder than necessary. This song represents the need for tolerance and not just blind hatred.
For What It’s Worth – Buffalo Springfield
‘For What It’s Worth’ was released in 1966 and was described as a song inspired by young protestors who weren’t rioting or causing any sort of violence, but police responded as if it were a mass riot. This is the perfect example of a song about tolerance as it insists that people should be more tolerable of someone’s right to protest as well as what shouldn’t be tolerated in regards to change
Ebony And Ivory – Paul McCartney & Stevie Wonder
‘Ebony and Ivory’ was released in 1982 with the aim of creating a sense of racial harmony. As there have commonly been racial tensions in America (as well as other places), the song is meant to unite races and promote tolerance of differences, showing that harmony can be achieved.
Imagine – John Lennon
“Imagine” is a song by English rock musician John Lennon, released in 1971. This was the best-selling single of his solo career, the lyrics encourage listeners to imagine a world of peace, without materialistic goals in mind, without borders separating countries, and without religion. While the lyrics may not directly ask for tolerance, it’s still relatable as it gives the listener a goal to achieve for humanity through tolerance and patience.
Compassion – Brittney Spencer
The country singer Brittney Spencer sings about compassion while the song ranges from a political to a personal point of view. She encourages empathy by seeing through the eyes of another.
Fussing and Fighting – Bob Marley
Bob Marley, a popular reggae artist sings Fussing and Fighting, a song asking why we keep fighting instead of getting along with one another.
Keep Your Heart Right – Terry Callier
Another great example of a song about tolerance. Terry Callier sings Keep Your Heart Right as a message to remind people to keep the right state of mind regardless of the trials that they may face.
Let It Grow – Eric Clapton
Let It Grow was first released in 1974 by Eric Clapton after overcoming three-year drug addiction. This track is mainly composed of guitar solos and is stated by Eric Clapton himself as being somewhat similar to Led Zeppelin’s ‘Stairway To Heaven’. The song starts quietly with Clapton singing some lyrics referencing ‘Crossroads,’ which became a theme of his career.
Make Love – Jason Mraz
The next song on our list is Jason Mraz’s ‘Make Love’. This song is very straightforward and the vibe is given away in the title. Make Love focuses not just on tolerance, but on overcoming obstacles such as any dislike of the world and dislike of yourself.
People Got To Be Free – The Rascals
This song is mostly upbeat but has a plea for tolerance and freedom. Released in 1963 the song is a product of its times. While it was perceived to be related to the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy, it was in fact written as a response to a nasty encounter the group had with some rednecks.