Sheryl Crow has released a song about the current political climate under the guidance of President Donald J. Trump, referring to him as the “leader of the free world,” and comparing reality to George Orwell’s dystopian “1984” novel.
The acclaimed singer-songwriter debuted the single — performed alongside her touring band the Real Lowdown — on Friday. In an Instagram caption, Crow wrote, “What’s happening all around us is so unbelievably bizarre, that my fear is we will truly begin to feel like this is normal. And that’s what terrifies me.”
The upbeat pop-rock track has Crow questioning: “Is it science fiction or prediction wrapped in George Orwell?/If the news is fake and fear is hate and nothing’s immoral/ To the leader of the free world, then welcome to the new normal.”
In “The New Normal,” Crow also comments on artificial intelligence, singing, “You’re gonna wake up someday/To a robot that’s in your place/Like all the predictions say.”
In her social posts, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee also took the time to acknowledge her band of 15 years — comprised of Fred Eltringham (drums, percussion), Audley Freed (electric guitar), Jen Gunderman (keyboards), Robert Kearns (bass), and Peter Stroud (electric guitar). She additionally teased new music with the band.
“I am so blessed to have the band that I have,” she wrote. “For years, we have jammed up such cool stuff during sound checks that we decided we go in and start recording as a band. Can’t wait for everyone to hear the new stuff we are doing.”