Here we go. New single ‘God On My Side’ is out now.
When we were recording ‘The True North’, co-producer Tony Buchen and I talked about laying down a few extra tracks for fun. I always rated this World Party song and it still made the grade for me, even though the subject matter was challenging to say the least, so we decided to throw it down super-fast. It didn’t really fit the themes of ‘The True North’ though so it made more sense to release it as a freestanding single.
“God On My Side” has nothing specifically to do with my own beliefs – which are more non-doctrinal than ever – but when I read an Episcopal minister saying “ … humans never behave more badly toward one another than when they believe they are protecting God” it reminded me of this song and a lot of what we are seeing in blood red. The world seems like mayhem right now: wars and conflict raging; the rich and powerful wanting their own way and damn the consequences; unalloyed narcissism and escapism all over; so this track, unfortunately, feels very timely.
Religious writings usually espouse love but, perversely, religious leaders often end up inciting hate. I happen to believe our survival depends on recognising that everyone is created with equal rights, none lesser than the other, and that disproportionate violence, especially to innocents and children, is a crime against humanity, irrespective of what is at stake or who commits that action.
Additionally, and obviously, respect and tolerance are not merely words on a page. They are essential foundation blocks for a peaceful society, especially where people hold different religious beliefs.
“God On My Side” – by my reading – suggests that if there is just one God (as most religions proclaim), then she/he is everyone’s, not some coverall which justifies inflicting crazy violence. Love in action, truly supporting one another and being prepared to defend human rights and the planet is the only antidote to this madness.
End of sermon.
CLICK HERE to have a listen.