Band names often carry intriguing stories. Led Zeppelin, famously named after a “lead balloon” comment, and The Beatles, a nod to Buddy Holly’s Crickets, are prime examples of monikers with curious origins. But what about a band from Long Beach, California, emerging in the early ’70s, a group celebrated for their multi-ethnic lineup and a mission to break down barriers? This band aimed, in the words of a founding member, “to spread a message of harmony, using instruments and voices to speak out against racism, hunger, gangs, and crimes, and promote hope and the spirit of brotherhood.” Their chosen name? Simply, War. Just War. It’s a name that makes you pause and consider its weight and implications.
Originally known as Eric Burden & War, they first captured attention with the mesmerizing track ‘Spill The Wine’ in 1970, fronted by the charismatic former lead singer of The Animals. War carved out a distinctive space in the music scene, crafting songs that were both gritty and soulful, achieving commercial success while maintaining a unique sound. Music critic Colin Larkin aptly described their style as “a potent fusion of funk, R&B, rock and Latin styles producing a progressive soul sound.” This blend resonated in chart-topping hits such as ‘The Cisco Kid,’ ‘Low Rider,’ ’The World is a Ghetto,’ ‘Slippin’ Into Darkness,’ ‘All Day Music,’ and ‘Summer.’ However, it’s arguably another song, the title track from their 1975 album – their seventh studio release – that cemented their place in popular culture. This song, with its upbeat and infectious rhythm, seems almost paradoxical when juxtaposed with the raw, multi-genre fusion that defined their earlier work and contributed to their tough, streetwise image. We’re talking about the undeniably catchy tune, ‘Why Can’t We Be Friends?’ It’s a four-minute burst of lighthearted, feel-good music, incredibly appealing, and considering its creators are called War, remarkably optimistic.
Album cover for War's "Why Can't We Be Friends" featuring the band members in a friendly pose
The Paradox of “War”: A Name for Peace
Choosing the name “War” for a band advocating for peace and unity appears, on the surface, to be a stark contradiction. Names are powerful; they set expectations and convey meaning. “War” conjures images of conflict, aggression, and division – the very antithesis of harmony and brotherhood. Yet, for the members of War, this name served as a potent statement. In a time of social and political turmoil, particularly in the United States during the Vietnam War era and the ongoing struggle for civil rights, naming themselves “War” was a deliberate act. It was a way to confront the harsh realities of the world head-on, to acknowledge the pervasive conflicts within society, and to declare their intention to fight for peace through their music.
Musical Ammunition: War’s Sound as a Force for Unity
War’s music itself became their weapon in this fight for unity. Their “progressive soul sound,” as Larkin described, was a melting pot of genres, mirroring the multi-ethnic makeup of the band and the diverse communities they represented. By blending funk, R&B, rock, and Latin rhythms, they created a sound that was uniquely American, reflecting the nation’s complex cultural tapestry. Songs like ‘The World is a Ghetto’ directly addressed social issues, shining a light on poverty and inequality. Even their instrumental tracks were infused with a rhythmic energy that transcended language barriers, inviting listeners from all backgrounds to connect through music. Their extensive use of percussion and extended jams created a communal, almost celebratory atmosphere in their performances, further reinforcing their message of togetherness.
“Why Can’t We Be Friends?”: An Irresistible Plea for Harmony
And then there’s ‘Why Can’t We Be Friends?’. This song stands out, not just for its immediate catchiness, but for the directness of its message. Released in the mid-1970s, a period still marked by social divisions, the song posed a simple yet profound question. Its playful, almost childlike melody, coupled with straightforward lyrics about overcoming differences and embracing friendship, made it universally appealing. The song’s brilliance lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t preach or demand; it simply asks “Why can’t we be friends?” – a question that resonates across cultures and generations. In the context of a band named War, this song becomes even more powerful. It’s a reminder that even amidst conflict and division, the possibility of friendship and understanding always exists.
In conclusion, the name War, initially appearing contradictory to their message, ultimately becomes a powerful paradox. It highlights the struggle against discord while underscoring the band’s commitment to harmony. And in their most famous song, ‘Why Can’t We Be Friends?’, War delivers an enduring anthem of hope, a timeless question that continues to be relevant in our world today. Indeed, what is War good for? Absolutely nothin’, say it again.
