A Peaceful Solution Joel and Michelle Hopkins

December 17th, 2007 Jay Posted in Arts, Peace |

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Joel and Michelle Hopkins produced a classic American rock ‘n’ roll version of “A Peaceful Solution.” This isn’t British invasion rock ‘n’ roll, no pianos here, just that solid bass, drum and guitar sound.

Joel Hopkins‘ driving guitar provides the perfect counterpoint to Michelle’s harmonized vocals. Together with Paul Lorenco’s solid drumming they craft a sound that predates hip-hop and rap without seeming to be anachronistic.

There was a feeling back in the day when this classic rock ‘n’ roll ruled the American airwaves. The feeling encapsulated the idea of peace with integrity.

Never in the past of the United States has the country cowered in the face of threat but we also appreciated the progress that can be achieved during peace. Peace was good for the United States and we didn’t have to back down from anyone.

Now our leaders have launched a perpetual war and we are being taught to be afraid. Violence and fear go hand in hand. No wonder Joel and Michelle Hopkins invoke “A Peaceful Solution” to the sound of classic American rock ‘n’ roll.

People in the United States of America should be able to live in their own homes and enjoy routine travel without being subjected to litanies of fear. We must defeat fear if we are to have peace.

We must be as free of fear as we were when American rock ‘n’ roll was the sound of the day. It was in those fearless times that peace seemed so much more possible.

Where is the gumption and fortitude behind the absolute feeling of correctness that fueled the past calls for peace? Have we allowed fear to dampen our calls for peace?

Righteous peace, peace with dignity, peace with progress and prosperity, constructive peace and peace with honor all seemed within our grasp. Then our government introduced us to a perpetual war on terror, began to see enemies everywhere and lead us into pointless violence that bleeds away the benefits of peace.

If enough of us keep it up, peace will again become dominant throughout the United States. If enough of us demand it, peace will again rule the day.

Who knows, with the return of peace maybe we’ll also return to good old American rock ‘n’ roll.

* * * * * Artist’s Statement * * * * *

As a musician I strive to cover a broad spectrum of topics for the masses. As an individual I write for the cathartic element.

As a daughter, sister, friend, mother and wife I create for peace and love for humanity.

I see innocent people losing their lives and our fellowmen losing civil liberties in the name of “safety”.

It is extremely difficult to approach a new song without transcribing these thoughts and feelings foremost. Adults are not the only ones effected by the “war on terror” and these so called “safety” bills that have stripped down our Constitutional rights to a mere “piece of paper.”

Our schools are gradually applying these unconstitutional laws to our children as well. They are oppressing them with new social standards and teaching them that pre-emptive actions are the answers to our problems. They allow recruiting stations in our schools to train them as soldiers for illegal occupations and inhumane wars.

My son is 14 and aspires to be like his uncle, who served in the military and a tour in Iraq. I am proud he would consider to serve and protect as many men in my family, but how could I encourage him at this point in time when the ultimate goal of this government is to create an empire with absolutely no regard for humanity or constitutional law.

It is disheartening to see the pro-war minded belittle our youth and even our veterans! for dancing and singing in the streets for peace. Is it so terrible that we join in song rather than being divided with biased views?

I will not stop the fight for peace until we’ve reached a resolution. My passion for freedom and peace will take precedence above all other ambitions as it affects the entire world, not just the United States of America.

In the past I wrote a song that stated, “I’m naive for thinking we could share the world in a song.” The Willie Nelson peace project has proved that it can be possible. It’s simply a matter of choice. It won’t solve our problems, but it will bring all walks of life together.

We need to act NOW every which way we can:

Letters to congress, video/blogs, peace rallies, sign waves, self-education, etc. We must VOTE for the presidential candidates likely to restore this nation and change our foreign policy, Dennis Kucinich or Ron Paul.

It’s equally important to get involved locally in future elections. Lets make sure we have leaders at every level representing “we the people” so we can sustain our achievements.

It’s time for the common man to actively take part

in the peace revolution.

Peace,
Michelle Hopkins (Vocal Brush)

Vocals – Michelle Hopkins

http://www.youtube.com/vocalbrush

http://www.myspace.com/bluebrush

Guitar/bass -Joel Hopkins

http://www.myspace.com/reddevilelvis

Drums - Paul Lorenco

http://www.myspace.com/paullourenco

http://www.ronpaul2008.com