Leon Bridges confronts systemic racism in new single, ‘Sweeter’
Leon Bridges is “hoping for a life more sweeter” in a newly-released single that addresses the repetitive pattern of racial injustice that has claimed the lives of black individuals across the nation. A minimalistic drum beat provides an unimposing backdrop for Bridges’ lyrical contemplation on the number.
“The death of George Floyd was the straw that broke the camel’s back for me. It was the first time I wept for a man I never met. I am George Floyd, my brothers are George Floyd, and my sisters are George Floyd. I cannot and will not be silent any longer.”
“…I’m just a story repeating/Why do I fear with skin dark as night/Can’t feel peace with those judging eyes,” Bridges sings. Bridges is not the sole entity confronting systemic racism on “Sweeter,” which features the vocals of Terrance Martin.
Make no mistake—dance music is born from black culture. Without black creators, innovators, selectors, and communities, the electronic dance music we hold so dear would simply not exist. In short, dance music is deeply indebted to the global black community and we need to be doing more. Black artists and artists of color have played a profound role in shaping the sound and culture of dance music and now more than ever, it is necessary for everyone in the music community to stand up for the people that have given us so much. Dancing Astronaut pledges to make every effort to be a better ally, a stronger resource, and a more accountable member of the global dance music community. Black Lives Matter—get involved here:
National Lawyers Guild Mass Defense Program
Colin Kaepernick’s Know Your Rights Legal Defense Initiative
Committee to Protect Journalists
Featured image: Rambo Elliot
Categories: Music