John Legend, the American singer, songwriter, activist, and coach at The Voice, released a powerful new song. The latest single "Preach" made its debut on February 15, 2019, and it tackles a number of social and political issues in the United States.
The video features a number of sensitive and controversial topics. Specifically, the footage previews mass shootings, police brutality against African-Americans, and family separations at the US border.
This latest installment by Legend proves his artistry once again. He captures the sentiment of just how people may feel helpless because of so much negative press.
The music video has a 'Practice What You Preach' donate button
If you happen to watch the video on your smartphone, tablet, or computer you will notice something above the description box. It has enabled a donate box that includes a "Take Action!"
Elsewhere, there is a cap of $50,000, which will expire one year from its official date of release. People interested in the cause can donate. You can start with $5, $20, $50 or other larger amounts. The donations are handled by the Social Impact Fund. To date, the total number of dollars donated since the song came out is $16,406.
It is not uncommon for artists to integrate social and political messages in their Music videos. For example, Maroon 5 last year recorded "Girls Like You" and featured inspirational women from all walks of life.
However, this video leaves you with a different feeling and is a call to action.
The protest song makes the case of taking meaningful action and regulating gun control laws
According to Songfacts dot com, the song was inspired by the wave of negative news constantly reported in the US. In addition, Legend told the BBC that it can be stressful to make sense of the news and get frustrated.
Nevertheless, he asserted that we have to realize we can actually do something about it.
Legend made his lyrics very explicit about what is bothering him. An excerpt from the song's chorus says, "I can't sit and hope, I can't just sit and pray." Legend explained that the chorus is targeted towards American legislators. In other words, they are reluctant to take any sort of action to curb gun violence especially at a time where mass shootings become all too common.
Takeaways
The song is not for the faint-of-heart. Singing about issues like immigration, school shootings, and racial profiling is not something you see in the music industry these days.
Legend found another source of inspiration for this song. He was inspired by the mobilization of the survivors of the Parkland, Florida shooting in February 2018.