This film tells the story of the American civil rights movement through its powerful music – the freedom songs protesters sang on picket lines, in mass meetings, in paddy wagons and in jail cells as they fought for justice and equality. The freedom songs evolved from slave chants, from the labor movement, and especially from the black church. The music enabled blacks to sing words they could not say, and it was crucial in helping the protesters as they faced down brutal aggression with dignity and non-violence. In this film, these moving songs are performed by modern performers John Legend, the Roots, Richie Havens, Wyclef Jean and more.

This acclaimed film was shown at numerous festivals and screenings, and won the Vancouver International Film Festival Rogers People’s Choice Award, the Chicago International Film Festival Gold Plaque for Direction, and the Morelia International Film Festival Audience Award. The film also made the Academy Award® Shortlist, and is a finalist for three International Documentary Associated Awards.