Earlier this week (April 20th), a jury found former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin guilty of murdering George Floyd in a disgusting display of police brutality. Undoubtedly, State v. Chauvin will go down in history as one of the most pivotal court cases of the century. And while many are tempted to dismiss or downplay the verdict under the banner of "we still have a long way to go," can't we just pause to celebrate for a minute?
Clearly we're not alone in thinking that this long-overdue administration of legal justice deserves some applause. Our girl Madison McFerrin is inclined to agree as the harmonic songbird has just released "GUILTY." This one-minute banger (which should NOT be played around the kiddos) provides a temporary release, an exhale and a dance break all in one – even as we mourn the loss of more Black lives (at the hands of police) this very month. Come for the pristine harmonies and stick around for that bass drop.
McFerrin explains, "it was just a reaction to feeling joy that someone was finally being held accountable. And while accountability isn't justice, it's still something. And I wanted to express that joy the best way I know how, which is through music." Same, sis. Same. She continues, "I would prefer that George Floyd be here and me not have to make this song, but maybe we can bump it after Daunte Wright and Ma'Khia Bryant get justice too."
"GUILTY" is practically free for the low, low price of $1. Head to Bandcamp to download the short track and consider supporting Madison McFerrin as a member of her #TRYtribe via Patreon as well.