#9: “Take the Power Back” by Rage Against the Machine

Two decades after its release, Rage Against the Machine’s Take the Power Back reignited controversy in an Arizona classroom. A teacher received a notice of noncompliance for playing the song during a Mexican-American History class, as it was deemed to violate state laws promoting individualism over ethnic solidarity.

The incident highlighted ongoing debates over education, censorship, and cultural identity. Ironically, the song itself criticizes systemic oppression and flawed educational structures, making the reprimand a real-life reflection of its message.