The title track of this album is intended to set the stage for the stories that follow. You hear different voices from different walks of life. And some of the instruments could be categorized as items picked up on the way, including pots that sound like singing bowls to open the track, a griddle pan played like a guiro, water bottle shaker, and a hockey stick slide guitar. The above photo that shows us playing some of those unique instruments on the streets.
This song made its debut during my CBC Arts feature.
Lyrics
I went to school but I’m down and out
I’m a parent, a child, a friend
I live the streets, I’m hungry, I’m cold,
Don’t tune me out, but tune me in
Don’t tune me out, but tune me in
CHORUS
I’m who I am
I’m a human being and I need a community
I’m who I am
I’m a human being and I need a community
I may be here from another land
I’m a parent, a child, a friend
I have to learn how to live these streets
Will you come ‘n walk with me
Will you come ‘n walk with me
CHORUS
Did you know that I am from this land?
I’m a parent, a child, a friend
These are the streets
of my ancestors
It’s time to learn our history
It’s time to learn our history
CHORUS
We need compassion
We’re parents, children and friends
Building bridges and community
wake up and do something
wake up and do something
CHORUS
And I need a community
And I need a community
Music by: Mary Abdel-Malek Neil and Len McCarthy
Produced by: Jeff Cowell and Mary Abdel-Malek Neil
Performed by: Mary Abdel-Malek Neil (vocals/griddle/singing pots), Len McCarthy (vocals/piano), Jeff Cowell (bass/hockey stick guitar/drums), Tamara Menon (vocals), Juneyt Yetkiner (guitar)