Tom Morello amplifies protest with playlist against Trump’s immigration policies

Tom Morello launches a politically charged playlist, blending music and activism to protest Trump-era policies.

Tom Morello, guitarist for Rage Against the Machine and a longtime activist, has released a striking 65-track playlist titled “F ICE,” aimed squarely at the Trump administration’s immigration policies and the enforcement actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The collection is a potent mix of protest, rock, and hip-hop tracks, chosen to highlight resistance, civil rights, and social justice through music.

The playlist spans decades and genres, featuring Rage Against the Machine classics alongside songs by Bruce Springsteen, Public Enemy, The White Stripes, Pearl Jam, and Rise Against. Among the standout tracks are Rage’s “Killing in the Name,” a furious call to challenge authority; Public Enemy’s politically charged anthem “Fight the Power”; Springsteen’s reflective protest ballad “The Ghost of Tom Joad”; and The White Stripes’ raw garage-rock track “Icky Thump,” which Morello has said resonates with defiance against oppressive systems. Morello also includes his own solo track, “Pretend You Remember Me,” reflecting personal engagement with political issues.

Morello, known as much for his activism as his guitar work, has a long history of blending music with political messaging. In June 2025, he joined thousands in downtown Los Angeles for the “Defend LA” protest, organized in response to recent ICE raids in the city. Images from the event capture him holding a “Defend LA” sign and wearing a t-shirt that reads “Destroy American Fascism.” The playlist continues this activism, providing a musical backdrop for resistance and urging listeners to confront political issues through song.

In discussing the playlist, Morello described it as “a rocking little soundtrack to enjoy while you drive those bastards out of your neighborhood.” He hopes the compilation will inspire fans not only to listen but to act, demonstrating that music can be a powerful tool for social change. While the songs cover a wide musical spectrum, they are united by a central theme: challenging injustice and advocating for human rights.

Beyond the playlist, Morello’s career has been defined by fusing music and activism. From the politically charged lyrics of Rage Against the Machine to his solo projects and collaborations with socially conscious artists, he has consistently used his platform to address inequality, systemic oppression, and authoritarianism. “F ICE” continues that trajectory, translating decades of political engagement into a curated musical statement against policies he views as harmful.

Listeners encountering the playlist will find it not only a celebration of protest music but also a historical lens, connecting contemporary activism with movements from the past. Tracks like Pearl Jam’s “Do the Evolution” and Rise Against’s “Prayer of the Refugee” reinforce themes of systemic injustice, while Springsteen and The White Stripes provide emotional and sonic contrast, showing how rock and folk traditions have long contributed to social discourse.

Ultimately, Morello’s “F ICE” playlist is more than just a collection of songs. It’s a call to awareness, a demonstration of the power of music to mobilize and educate, and a continuation of a career-long commitment to political engagement. For Morello, music is inseparable from activism, and this playlist exemplifies how a carefully curated set of songs can make both a cultural and political statement.

By drawing attention to both classic protest anthems and contemporary critiques, Morello underscores the enduring relevance of music in shaping public dialogue and inspiring collective action. “F ICE” serves as a reminder that art and activism can intersect powerfully, giving audiences the opportunity to reflect, resist, and rally.

Tom Morello’s “F ICE” Playlist – Key Tracks

Rage Against the Machine – “Killing in the Name”

A signature anthem of rebellion and defiance against authority, setting the tone for the playlist.

Public Enemy – “Fight the Power”

Highlights systemic injustice and encourages listeners to challenge oppressive structures.

Bruce Springsteen – “The Ghost of Tom Joad”

Reflects empathy for marginalized communities and the human cost of political policies.

The White Stripes – “Icky Thump”

Raw garage-rock energy symbolizing resistance and frustration with societal norms.

Rise Against – “Prayer of the Refugee”

Focuses on displacement and the struggles of those affected by government and corporate power.

Pearl Jam – “Do the Evolution”

A critique of systemic corruption and humanity’s destructive tendencies.

Tom Morello – “Pretend You Remember Me"

Personal statement from Morello, blending political and emotional engagement.

Rage Against the Machine – “Bulls on Parade”

Commentary on militarism and the use of force, tying into themes of government overreach.

System of a Down – “Boom!”

Addresses political manipulation and the consequences of war and violence.

Bob Dylan – “The Times They Are A-Changin’”

A timeless protest classic reminding listeners that social change is ongoing and necessary.

Sources:

• Ground.news
• 98online.com,
• Rolling Stone
• The Mosh
• NME

Tom Morello Image: By Raph_PH - MuseBristol_050619-15, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=80128359

Trump Image: By Unknown author - https://www.whitehouse.gov/articles/loopholes-child-trafficking-laws-put-victims-american-citizens-risk/, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=67385718