Frontline

by Priya Parrotta

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about

“Frontline” is a protest song, written in resistance to the systematic acquisition, pollution and sale of tropical coastlines. Specifically, it was written as a response to the ecological injustices of commercial tourism and, more recently, the atrocious dynamics of disaster capitalism on the shorelines of Puerto Rico. As somebody who grew up in San Juan’s most heavily commercialized coastal zone, I have always felt fury about the way in which wealthy interests are able to run roughshod over precious coastal ecosystems – whether in the name of economic development or undisguised personal profit. Such injustices are common in the Caribbean, as well as across archipelagos in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, and beyond. Reckless profiteering on coastlines is part of a paradigm which must be resolutely challenged in as many spaces as possible, from city plazas, to schools, to the halls of major international institutions such as the United Nations. This song is inspired by the possibility of a call to action which transcends geographic borders, links the people of the world’s shorelines, in defense of all of the ecosystems which we inhabit, and which require the best in us all.

lyrics

We sound our call from the shore
As we have a thousand times before
While the waves ripple and the sun shines
Hear our call from the frontline

You love us 'cause we never seem to worry
Because we hardly ever hurry
Because you can be wealthy here
But let's make something crystal clear

You think the island is here to sell
But we know all too very well
That this is precious sacred ground
Now be quiet, and hear its sound

And we sound our cry in the hall of nations
A song for a thousand generations
A call for a resolution
For a real and true solution
A cry for restitution
A now or never revolution

You think the world is in your hand
That you can own the sea and sand
That the island's served on a silver platter
As if all life here doesn't matter

You fancy yourself royalty
But you cannot shake our loyalty
And as you sink in your own lies
Our strength soars to the skies

And we sound our cry in the hall of nations
A song for a thousand generations
A call for a resolution
For a real and true solution
A cry for restitution
A now or never revolution

credits

released May 6, 2023
Music, lyrics & production by Priya Parrotta

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about

Priya Parrotta Washington, D.C.

Priya is an author, singer, songwriter, composer, producer, and activist dedicated to peace and healing across borders. Her music celebrates the Earth, the skies, and the journeys of our hearts. She is a multicultural, world citizen with close connections to the Mediterranean, South Asia & the Americas. Priya was one of 50 musicians nationwide to be nominated for the 2022 US Artists Fellowship. ... more