Artists For Action double down on their determination by reissuing their cover of the rabble-rousing folk classic Which Side Are You On? — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
In 2022, the international folk supergroup of 16 artists from six countries on four continents first released the song, originally penned as a union song by Florence Reece in 1931. Artists For Action’s version took aim at the rise of far-right politics and the resurgence of fascism around the globe, the most glaring example of which was Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine.
With recent world events, including the implosion of American democracy and the resurgence of fascist groups in Germany and elsewhere the message behind the song seems more important, more urgent, than ever, so Artists For Action have rereleased the single to foster discussion. When the single was first released it enjoyed airplay all over the world, although there were some stations that refused to play it, stating that it was too controversial.
This project was born when spoken-word poet and songwriter Bob Jensen received a note from an old friend, saying that Which Side Are You On? was ripe for a remake. The two discussed how the song could be updated to reflect contemporary issues. Jensen decided on the spot that he would record an updated version of the song and release it to radio.
“I was excited at the prospect,” says Jensen, “and thought I would invite a couple of friends and colleagues from the folk music community to join me. My first ask was my old friend James Keelaghan, and he immediately said I should count him in. I asked a few more people, and within a couple of days, I had half a dozen very fine artists from around the world committed to the project.” The primary goal of this project is the message, as opposed to it being a fundraiser. However, the song will generate revenue, all of which will be donated to a registered charity in aid of Ukraine.
The participants:
Black Umfolosi (Zimbabwe) | Vocals
Ray Bonneville (Canada) | Harmonica
Bruce Cockburn (Canada) | Vocals
Chris Corrigan (Canada) | Acoustic guitar
Guy Davis (U.S.) | Vocals
Ani DiFranco (U.S.) | Vocals
Maria Dunn (Canada) | Vocals
Adam Hill (Canada) | Upright bass
Bob Jensen (Canada) | Vocals
James Keelaghan (Canada) | Vocals
Richard Knox (Canada) | Drums
Lucy MacNeil (Canada) | Vocals
Tony McManus (Scotland / Canada) | Guitar
Moulettes (England) | Vocals
Oysterband (England) | Vocals
Richard Perso (Australia) | Didgeridoo
Heather Rankin (Canada) | Vocals
Martin Simpson (Canada) | Vocals, banjo, electric guitar
Watch the video for Which Side Are You On? above, listen to the song below, and make your choice on their website.
