The Nation Sings!

A guest post by Progressive Majority organizer Aisha O’Brien. The Nation Sings is a project we think will resonate with the many area musicians, so read on on how you can participate…

“Our country has a long and inspiring history of protest songs – they united us, gave us a voice, and lifted our spirits when our woes were too heavy. Today, protest songs come from every genre and artist out there. So we’re putting the microphone back in the people’s hands to sing out loud. The Nation Sings is collaboration project that will bring in creators and editors alike to remix the next generation of protest and political songs. We want the next “This Land” or “We Shall Overcome” or “Bread and Roses.”

Even today, protest songs can be heard on the airwaves and through the interwebs. They may not be chanted in the crowds, but they’re still songs that speak truth to power. Take for example, Janelle Monae’s Mr. President. The lines that hit me hardest are the first:

Dear Mr. President
Tomorrow I’m paying my rent
My fuel is runnin’ low
And I got places to go
Quit slowin’ me down

It’s relatable – we all pay rent and it’s a sign of responsibility that we do. And it perfectly frames the problems we face today – we want to succeed, we’re working hard, but it seems like the world keeps slowing us down.

And the fight has reached a fever pitch in states across the country – it reached new heights this March in Wisconsin. Thousands upon thousands of protestors descended on Madison to let their voices be heard. They inspired a new crop of protest songs for the 21st Century. A great, raucous blues song that came from these protests is Scott Walker Blues by Bonobo Secret Handshake.

Scott Walker Blues from Bonobo Secret Handshake on Vimeo.

We are at a turning point in our history. At Progressive Majority, we’re fighting to rebuild the American dream and give the rights stolen throughout this year back to Americans. We’re fighting to save the middle class. That’s why we need your voices to shout out and sing out against what’s happening. So send us your songs, lyrics, beats, and inspiring photos and videos of the protests. We also need remixers – video editors and DJs who can mix it all up and create something new and unique. Send us your stuff here! [THE NATION SINGS] Join Progressive Majority, Grassrooting Productions and all the Americans who want to sing along.” – Aisha O’Brien