H.E.R Makes A Bold Statement with ‘I Can’t Breathe’

As musicians across the globe are rallying for the #BlackLivesMatter Movement in different ways, some artists are taking to music to bring comfort and solace to others. One of them is none other than the Grammy-winning singer H.E.R.

The star just debuted a moving new song titled, “I Can’t Breathe” during an episode of iHeartRadio’s Living Room Concert Series. Just by the title, you know that the song is based on recent events. Speaking of the song writing process, H.E.R had this to say:

“These lyrics were kind of easy to write because it came from a conversation of what’s happening right now, what’s been happening, and the change that we need to see,” H.E.R. said, “ I think music is powerful when it comes to change and when it comes to healing and that’s why I wrote this song, to make a mark in history. And I hope this song does that.”

H.E.R Hopes For Justice in her Lyrics

The lyrics speak of the facade that is equality. They speak of the the fact that people of colour are robbed of opportunities, rights, and ultimately their humanity. Well thought out and poignant, the lyrics hit a very raw nerve: 

Started a war screaming “Peace” at the same time

All the corruption, injustice, the same crimes

Always a problem if we do or don’t

Findin’ we, nah, we don’t have the same rights

What is a gun to a man that surrenders?

What’s it gonna take for someone to defend us?

If we all agree that we’re equal as people

Then why can’t we see what is evil?

[Chorus]

I can’t breathe

You’re taking my life from me

I can’t breathe

Will anyone fight for me?

This wasn’t the only track that H.E.R performed during the show. She also went on to cover Green Day’s American Idiot single “Boulevard of Broken Dreams.” A string full of heartbreaking tunes, but hopefully, as the world comes together to fight for racial justice – no community will be forced to walk alone into this battle.

By: Nina Karun