I’ve been sitting on these words for a while. Originally written in 2016 for the Bernie Sanders movement, I was surprised to read them again the other day and find how they’re still relevant to today. When words age well, I guess.
In addition, I think I may have found the music for them in some of the new strumming techniques I’ve been working on. While learning, I was also putting together a simple, but effective chord progression that I rather like. I’ve hummed out the basic rhythms together and they do seem to fit. The next step will be writing out the bridge- a long time challenge of mine I’ve been trying to overcome. In the meantime, enjoy this tidbit of what I have:
“Power to the people”
Chorus (at end of chorus use LINE 1 in the first run-through and then line 2 through the second and so on and so forth)
I know there is more destined to be
Than a nation subdued by drugs and TV
You have to wake up
(Shake up)
Fight to be free
[The power it rests with you and with me (power to the people)]
1. The force of change begins with "We"
2. The voice of change begins with "We"
3. The fight for change begins with "We"
4. A better life begins with “We”
verses:
V1: Day by day we slave away
One job, two jobs, a third on the way
To an existence defined by a broken clock
(Tick tock)
Words of fear, control, and shock
V2: Tow the line, too afraid to let go
Of this way of life and the status quo
Ignoring facts from voices so loud
Media blackouts for record crowds
(chorus line 2)
V3: Us or them, the illusion of choice
Stripping away the strength of our voice
Distractions, infractions, incarceration for all
only United can we stand tall
(chorus line 3)
(chorus line 4)