Congressman Curly: Continuing the Longstanding Tradition of Embracing the Power of Music to Effect Social Change
November 4, 2024
Author Jon Stojan
Music has been a compelling outlet for expression throughout history, reflecting society’s emotions, struggles, and triumphs. The art form transcends language and cultural barriers, enabling people to convey resonant feelings and complex ideas. As a medium for commentary on social, political, and economic issues, music offers a platform for marginalized voices or serves as a call to action.
A prominent example of how music serves as a vehicle for social commentary is the 1960s counterculture movement in the United States. Released in 1962 during the height of the civil rights movement, Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” presents questions about freedom, justice, and peace. Similarly, Marvin Gaye’s album “What’s Going On” captures the confusion and frustration of a nation struggling with war, police brutality, and racial tension.
Globally, many recognized artists have utilized their platforms to speak against oppression. The punk rock movement of the 1970s in the United Kingdom brought bands like The Clash, who tackled issues of class struggles, racism, and more through politically charged lyrics, to the forefront. Meanwhile, in South Africa, musicians like Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela wrote songs highlighting the suffering of Black South Africans.
Essentially, music has been integral to social and political movements across time and borders, providing a means to critique, resist, and unify. In The Republic, Greek philosopher Plato mentioned music as a powerful educational tool, as it shapes how individuals act, behave, and feel. Multiple studies attest to this, exploring how music causes social change and what kind of shift it prompts.
Congressman Curly, a satirical character and music artist performed by activist, comedian, and entrepreneur Tony Zorc, operates in the same vein as the aforementioned global artists who have leveraged their craft to effect social change. The Congressman Curly movement, initially centered on comedy live shows, evolved into a music-driven platform that communicates critiques of the American political system through original songs that address corruption, greed, and the disconnect between politicians and the people they claim to serve.
The songs Zorc and his team create are under the persona of the characters in the Congressman Curly universe. Many use satire and wit to expose the hypocrisy and moral decay within Washington, DC, while others directly address the serious emotions the audience has about disempowerment and frustration. “Our mission is to entertain and inspire listeners to join a real movement for change, which we call the Upgrader’s Country Club,” says Zorc. “We realized that music is the perfect medium for this because it makes topics—that can be quite complex and uncomfortable for some—easier to digest.”
For instance, “Beast Congressman,” sung by Curly, the main figure representing the typical corrupt politician, illustrates the systemic greed and corruption in politics. Its lyrics, such as “Serving you was my intention, but the truth is what I don’t mention! Don’t work for you, but instead for me,” perfectly capture this notion. “My Tribe” is another iconic track featuring Curly. The song promotes division, encouraging citizens to put “tribe” before the country.
“Curly’s lyrics are satirical and biting; but because our songs have infectious melodies, they resonate with our listeners. We also received feedback from those who hear our songs through our live shows that they reflect on the deeper message even days after, and that brings us pride because that’s the core of our mission—changing hearts and minds,” Zorc remarks.
Zorc and his team, believing in the power of music and its ability to evoke emotions and create lasting connections, provide listeners with an intellectually and emotionally stimulating experience. The songs instill a sense of camaraderie, reminding people that despite their differences, they share a collective frustration with the political system and the opportunity to make a change if they band together.
By making the songs accessible to everyone through several music platforms, Congressman Curly achieves its goal of serving as a foundation where people from all walks of life can reflect on the broken state of politics and have hope for change. Listeners can repeat the songs over and over, allowing the message to sink in with each listen.
Congressman Curly’s music-driven act has reached not only Gen X and Baby Boomers but also Millennials and Gen Z. The clever use of themes in song form has been effective in engaging people of all ages in political discourse without making them feel uncomfortable. Music’s emotional aspect has allowed Zorc to deliver the same palatable and thought-provoking socio-political critique without leaving listeners uneasy.
Music has always played a pivotal role in shaping and reflecting on societal values, and Congressman Curly aims to continue this tradition. Zorc and his team remain committed to demonstrating that music can be a powerful tool to effect social change.