We Gotta Get Out of This Place (book)

We Gotta Get Out of This Place: The Soundtrack of the Vietnam War is a non-fiction book written by Doug Bradley and Craig Werner. Published in 2015, it explores the profound and complex relationship between American popular music and the Vietnam War. The book examines how songs became anthems for soldiers, anti-war protesters, and a generation grappling with the conflict's social and political implications.

Bradley and Werner analyze a wide range of musical genres, including rock and roll, soul, country, and folk, highlighting the diverse perspectives and experiences reflected in the music of the era. They argue that these songs served as a crucial form of communication, comfort, and resistance for those affected by the war.

The book details how certain songs became deeply embedded in the collective consciousness, providing solace and a sense of shared identity amidst the turmoil of the time. It also examines the evolving role of music as a vehicle for political expression and social commentary, demonstrating how artists used their platform to challenge the war and advocate for peace.

We Gotta Get Out of This Place is a historical and cultural analysis that provides insight into the Vietnam War era through the lens of popular music. It illuminates the power of music to reflect, shape, and ultimately transcend the realities of war.