Just let that sink in for a second- three big metal guys are on a song dedicated to Nelson Mandela (and Lucky Dube), which will be mixed and mastered by metal and pop producers. Is it safe to say that metal is a big deal yet?
Alright, so the single is being put out by Vancouver-based non-profit record label Revolution Harmony, which was launched in 2011 by British music lecturer/journalist Ray Holroyd. The song is being mixed by Rohan Onraet (Slipknot, Machine Head) in London, and mastered by Ted Jensen (Green Day, Muse), and features Stefan Loh (We Claimed Sentience Once) on guitars, and additional vocals from the young up-and-coming UK singer Abbie Johnson. I think I'm excited, but confused is a pretty big part of what I'm feeling as well. According to the Revolution Harmony site–
The lyrical theme in "We Are" is based on the concept behind Revolution Harmony, which is essentially the belief that musical harmony has the power to inspire a revolution towards societal harmony. The single is dedicated to Nelson Mandela and the memory of Lucky Dube, regarded as South Africa's Bob Marley, and will be released worldwide on Mandela Day (18 July), with all proceeds donated to Buskaid, a charity that provides free music lessons and instruments to children in the townships of South Africa.
Ihsahn said-
I have followed this song since it was basically just a MIDI file and love how it has grown into this massive piece of music, so it was very easy to get inspired for lyrics and vocal lines." He continues on his support for the cause behind the single: "Knowing how music has shaped and enriched my own life, and how privileged I have been to be able to follow that passion, I really appreciate Buskaid's work to enable young people to follow that same path. Like most, my involvement in charity has been very generic, like signing up for donations to some of the global organizations, but Revolution Harmony has given me the opportunity to contribute with something personal, together with people who share my passion for music. I'm honored to be part of this.
Devin said-
I met Ray while he was working at a guitar magazine in the UK. He was very generous with his position there and had convinced me to guest on his charity project. I am happy to contribute and to be involved with the other musicians. I hope the goals he has for the benefit of people in need come to fruition, and I wish everyone involved the best of luck. Please do what you can to help people less fortunate than yourself, it is rarely easy, but it is a testament to the human spirit.
And finally, Serj said-
It has been an absolute honor being involved with the Revolution Harmony project to bring much needed financial aid to Buskaid in South Africa. Music has saved my life and has the potential to create positive change in all those young kids struggling to make themselves heard and to survive.
Watch out for the song on July 18- I'm sure we'll be streaming it here the second it's up.
