From washing your hands, to protecting yourself from mosquito bites, to those native plants you included in your garden to attract pollinators, public health touches nearly every aspect of our daily lives. But what about when you listen to your favorite tunes on your walk between classes or drive home from work? If you look closely enough, public health is there, too.
We asked the College of Public Health community what songs inspire them when they could use some motivation.
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“Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell
“This is an old 70s song that still gives me goosebumps and a tear in my eye because I was a part of this movement. Joni Mitchell brilliantly warned us that paving "paradise," removing trees, and killing birds and bees from using DDT will be missed once they are gone. This was an environmental public health song during the environmental movement in the 70s, which eventually led to federal laws being passed that protected public health (the Clean Air Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Clean Water Act, and the formation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency).”
— Paul Rosile, associate professor of public health practice, Division of Environmental Health Sciences
“Don't Go Near the Water” by The Beach Boys
“The song is as relevant today as it was in 1971 — maybe even more so. It’s the story of a water supply gone bad, poisoned by the “touch of man.” At the end, they turn, they’ve identified the problem, and they make a call to action. “Let’s all help the water, right away.” What can be more public health than that?”
— Taylor King Boyles, interim executive director of development
“Heal the World” by Michael Jackson
“This song perfectly captures what public health stands for — that is compassion, healing and collective care. The message in the lyrics call for action to make the world a better, healthier place for everyone, especially those who are struggling. The song reminds us that healing isn’t just physical: it’s emotional, social and global.”
— Hira Siddiqui, MPH student
“What It Sounds Like” by KPop Demon Hunters
“This song speaks to public health’s commitment to making sure all voices are heard, respected and considered and to standing with people who have been through hard times and helping them toward a brighter future.”
“Take me home” by Pink Pantheress
“There's a lyric that says "I went to the doctor again; said I was behind on my rent. He told me it's not a problem for him." This is an example of how our current medical system doesn't take the social determinants of health into account when looking at the full picture of one's health and health outcomes. The doctor should have connected Ms. Pink to community or government resources that might help her catch up on her rent and improve her SES (socioeconomic status) in order to improve her future health outcomes.”
— Micah Morris, MPH student
“Wash My Hands” by Lata Harbor
“I believe the song came out in March 2020, like during the exact time frame news of the COVID-19 pandemic broke. So, I always thought a song called “Wash My Hands” being released during a time where people were globally encouraged to practice proper hygiene was a funny coincidence.”
— Britney Manu, MPH – Epidemiology
“Renegades of Funk” by Rage Against the Machine
“Not only is it incredibly funky, this Rage Against the Machine song presents civil "renegades," social activists, and other changemakers as the future and part of the unstoppable force that is progress. It also uplifts the listener and suggests that even without being a prominent figure in a civil rights or social movement, we're all contributors to positive change in the world around us. ”
“American Idle” by Los Lonely Boys
“The song underscores the emotional and mental health toll of living in a society that asks people to survive rather than thrive. At the same time, it offers a pathway toward healing through solidarity and compassion, calling listeners to stop harming one another and instead choose love as a form of community resilience. By weaving in both English and Spanish, Los Lonely Boys root their message in a bicultural identity, reminding us that the struggle for justice is both universal and deeply tied to cultural experience.”
— Indra Leyva Cook, engagement and alumni relations consultant
“Feels Like Summer” by Childish Gambino
“This song discusses the impacts of climate change such as key pollinators (bees) dying, the irreversible nature of biodiversity loss and water scarcity. The most striking part to me is that water scarcity was already a big concern in 2018, and data centers that power things we don’t need like artificial intelligence are exacerbating the issue.”
— Daniel Hamilton, web management specialist
“Brave” by Sarah Bareilles
“Public health is about sharing knowledge and evidence and often this means we have to be “brave.” I have seen many public health leaders, colleagues and researchers be brave in the name of spreading and supporting public health initiatives.”
“Born This Way” by Lady Gaga
“Born This Way is a great anthem of mental health and self-acceptance for who you are.”
— Anthony Rodriguez, senior marketing strategist
“Three little Birds” by Bob Marley
“Three little birds is one of those songs that remind us that no matter what’s going on, we have the reassurance that everything is going to be all right. This song represents hope, resilience and the spirit of public health that brings calm to communities during challenging times.”
“Everyday People” by Sly & The Family Stone
“It embraces our differences while celebrating our shared humanity, and encourages understanding and acceptance.”
— Misti Crane, director of strategic communications and marketing
