How influential is Political Music?

When I think of this issue, the major controversy over The Dixie Chicks' song "I'm Not Ready to Make Nice," is the first thing that comes to mind.  After the group was seen as traitors for telling a London audience that they were ashamed that their president came from Texas in 2003, the group released this song that instantly rose on the charts.  It raised awareness about the death threats that the three Texans had received prior to their London concert.  Strong lyrics like, "And how in the world can the words that I said Send somebody so over the edge That they'd write me a letter sayin' that I better
Shut up and sing or my life will be over," showed the world of the petty ways people could treat others over such political issues along with some of the sad flaws in today's society. 

I think that certain political music can be very influential as we just discussed, however I believe that they are influential in a sense of raising awareness. Some political songs have been major statements such as, "Gimme Shelter" by the Rolling Stones.  Music is a great way to reach the masses in an artistic and relatable way.  Words can be so touching and really impact the hearts of many, so I definitely think that political music plays an influential role in today's society by raising awareness and bringing people together to fight for the causes that they are passionate about.