Biko

song by Gabriel

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

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The song "Biko" was written by Peter Gabriel, a British musician known for his work with the band Genesis and his solo career. The song is a tribute to Steve Biko, the founder of the Black Consciousness Movement in South Africa.

Steve Biko was a prominent anti-apartheid activist who advocated for Black pride and self-worth. He co-founded the South African Students’ Organization (SASO) and was instrumental in spreading the philosophy of Black consciousness. Biko's death in police custody in 1977 made him an international symbol of resistance against apartheid. Gabriel's song, released in 1980, brought Biko's story and the struggle against apartheid to a global audience.

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Steve Biko
Biko in popular culture
…rocker Peter Gabriel’s song “Biko” (1980) and “Steve Biko” (1997) by Jamaican reggae and dancehall musician Beenie Man. In conjunction with the release of Cry Freedom in 1987, Gabriel created a music video for “Biko,” which features clips from the film.
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…rocker Peter Gabriel’s song “Biko” (1980) and “Steve Biko” (1997) by Jamaican reggae and dancehall musician Beenie Man. In conjunction with the release of Cry Freedom in 1987, Gabriel created a music video for “Biko,” which features clips from the film.
Read More