Xavier Rudd, together with his band The United Nations has unveiled a brand new song ‘Shame,’ in the wake of the current conversation around racism in Australia, offering this song to the world “as a chance to ponder the idea of change.”
Opening with a warm and mellow beat, ‘Shame‘ immediately delves into the dark side of Australian history and the mistreatment of the Indigenous people of the land. The contrast of his solemn lyrics to the soothing and soulful accompanying vocals evoke optimistic feelings around creating a more socially conscious community and further intensify Xavier’s powerful and constructive message “to stand strong as one people, to keep the fire for reconciliation burning into the future and overall respect each other, this beautiful nation and protect land together.”
Not only an iconic Australian musician, Xavier Rudd is also an ardent activist for the rights of Aboriginal peoples. Weighing in on the racism debate, he states, “The racist currents that have run through this country since colonisation need to be stamped out forever. Issues like the current Adam Goodes debacle are a worldwide embarrassment for this country. I spent time with Adam at a reconciliation conference in Melbourne and not only is he a great leader on and off the footy field, he is a beautiful humble being who would like nothing more than for all people to learn and grow together as Australians of all ancestral backgrounds. Racism is not natural; it is a condition, an evil thread passed through the generations from a dark and fragile time. It effects everybody of all bloodlines and eats away at us like a disease.”
Using the example of Adam Goodes as a catalyst for change in the attitudes and behaviours nationwide and around the world, Xavier calls on his fellow Australians to empower themselves and take a stand.“The injustices of the past are nobody’s fault, nobody needs to feel any guilt, shame or hurt. It is time to lift that dark veil and shine a big bright light into this issue. It is ok for people to want to learn about each other’s cultures and admit that they’ve never been given the chance. Division goes against the ancient spirit of this country that we all love so much, that spirit whether we choose it or not passes through us all and is a part of our connection to this amazing land. Why not encourage our children to embrace and learn more of that spirit, rather than subject them to more confusion and darkness.”
Xavier Rudd & The United Nations are touring nationally this August – October. ‘Shame’ is now available as a free download via Soundcloud.
