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Various Artists
Is it wrong to like something because of its politics? Or how about dismissing something for the same reason? Lord knows that there are plenty of musical projects that I’ve written off for political reasons (implied or otherwise). Truth is, there just isn’t much good music that glorifies Conservativism, especially when it is built on the backs of poor working-class people.
It is rare for a talented artist to have a political vision that is successful on its own terms, without overt bias or partisanship. “Moneyland” is a political CD in the sense that it attacks the politics of greed. Each song on this disk conveys the plight of working class Americans who have found themselves disenfranchised by the very same people they elected into office.
Bluegrass master Del McCoury produces “Moneyland” and performs on a number of songs, as do special guests such as Emmylou Harris, Rodney Crowell, Marty Stuart, Merle Haggard, Bruce Hornsby, the Fairfield Four and others. It’s a wonderful musical experience, and it’s a visceral punch in the face of every politician that has betrayed our trust. Perhaps the best way to convey the spirit of this disk is in the words of the album’s producer/organizer, Del McCoury:
“ I just celebrated my 68th birthday this year – and I continue to be amazed and grateful for my family’s many blessings. According to society, I guess it’s time for me to sit back on my accomplishments and let others pick up the torch, but I’m just not ready to do that in any area of my life. There’s still a lot of ground to be covered. I do agree that being active and materially blessed at this age gives a man unique opportunities. I can make choices that are good for me and others – the very reason I chose to be a part of this project.”
“All of my family grew up in rural America, a place where hard work is rewarded, friends are always ready to lend a hand to someone in need, and they still believe in the “original” Golden Rule – “do unto others…” That’s why I can’t ignore what’s happening to the hard working folks all across this country – but especially in rural America. Most have worked just as hard as I have, and love their kids and grandkids just as much as I do – but they’ve had some bad breaks. If their jobs are going away – along with their pensions in many cases, their hospitals are being closed, and they are struggling to meet their basic needs – I have to do what I can to help.”
“I’ve spent a good part of my life in York County, Pennsylavania, which is often referred to as the “biggest little industrial city in the country.” Twenty to thirty years ago, anyone in York could get a good job, because there were factories everywhere. In the last few years, I’ve had to watch friends and family lose their jobs as factories closed, and many lose their pensions which they were relying on for retirement. This hit really close to home when my wife Jean saw her pension wiped out from the job she had before we moved to Nashville. Fortunately, we weren’t relying on her pension for retirement, but there are many who aren’t so lucky. Add in the uncertainty of Social Security, and many working folks all across America are in a tough spot.”
“That is what this project is all about. Some have called it “a call to action for rural America.” Me, I’m just trying to follow the Golden Rule. Thank you for your support. I hope this music moves you to find a place where you can help – even if it’s just at the voting booth.”
As the liner notes say, there are good and bad in both political parties. It isn’t about partisanship. Yet the truth is that many Washington politicians are responsible for turning “Rural America into a scene of devastation which can now best be described as ‘forgotten America.’ But this cd, listen closely, and then do what you can – but whatever you do, vote.
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