“Do You Hear the People Sing” has stood as an anthem of defiance and hope since it was first sung on a West End stage in London in 1985. It’s not surprising then that the Les Mis classic has taken on another new life amidst current anti-racism protests being held around the globe.
The musical was based on Victor Hugo’s novel of revolution-era France in the early 19th century and the song gave voice to young idealists determined to not only overthrow the government but subvert a society beset by famine, disease and economic strife, and in which the oppressed lower classes had virtually no influence.
Since its inception, the song, which is sung twice in the musical and has become its finale, has been adapted into many languages and in recent years has been used by protesters in Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines and Iraq amongst others.
However, at its heart, it’s still one of the great songs of a great play – second longest running musical in the world. Here is a version from the 10th anniversary concert in 1985 at the Royal Albert Hall, performed by 17 different actors (in their own languages) who played Jean Valjean around the world, including Michael Burgess from the Canadian production.
The French barricades in the stage show provide a different backdrop than today’s street protests, but the sentiment still stirs, and the message still has meaning. Sadly.
Lyrics
Do you hear the people sing?
Singing a song of angry men?
It is the music of a people
Who will not be slaves again
When the beating of your heart
Echoes the beating of the drums
There is a life about to start
When tomorrow comes
Will you join in our crusade?
Who will be strong and stand with me?
Beyond the barricade
Is there a world you long to see?
Then join in the fight
That will give you the right to be free
Do you hear the people sing?
Singing a song of angry men?
It is the music of a people
Who will not be slaves again
When the beating of your heart
Echoes the beating of the drums
There is a life about to start
When tomorrow comes
Will you give all you can give
So that our banner may advance
Some will fall and some will live
Will you stand up and take your chance?
The blood of the martyrs
Will water the meadows of France
Do you hear the people sing?
Singing a song of angry men?
It is the music of a people
Who will not be slaves again
When the beating of your heart
Echoes the beating of the drums
There is a life about to start
When tomorrow comes