Shemekia Copeland
Uncivil War [Digital Single]
Originally released as a single in June, 2020 (which was world-premiered by SiriusXM Bluesville radio), the topical song Uncivil War has already made an impact. Rolling Stone praises it as "Blues queen Shemekia Copeland's rootsy message song about the divided states of America. Her gospel-tinged vocal is there to soothe and defuse, reminding us that it’s time to listen to one another and, ultimately, come together."
Award-winning blues and Americana vocalist Shemekia Copeland premieres her timely new song, “Uncivil War,” on Friday, June 19. It is a courageous statement pleading for unity in a time of disunion, and is unlike anything Copeland has previously recorded. “Uncivil War” takes no sides and speaks to every person's desire to be safe and free. Featuring iconic mandolin wizard Sam Bush, dobro master Jerry Douglas and background vocals from popular alternative band, The Orphan Brigade, the song is simultaneously comforting and challenging, as Copeland sings, "Same old wounds we've opened before / Nobody wins an uncivil war." Shemekia delivers the song with passion and insight about the chaos and uncertainty in the world while still finding light in the darkness and hope for the future.
According to Copeland, "It's not just a song. I’m trying to put the 'united' back in the United States. Like many people, I miss the days when we treated each other better. For me, this country’s all about people with differences coming together to be part of something we all love. That’s what really makes America beautiful.”
Produced by Will Kimbrough
Shemekia Copeland: Vocals
Will Kimbrough: Guitar
Jerry Douglas: Dobro
Sam Bush: Mandolin
Steve Conn: Hammond B3 organ
Lex Price: Bass
Pete Abbott: Drums
The Orphan Brigade: Background vocals
Recorded and mixed by Sean Sullivan at The Butcher Shoppe, Nashville, TN
Mastered by Jim Demain at Yes Master!, Nashville, TN
Executive producer: John Hahn
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