Kate Pierson Revives Protest Anthem with Chicago Youth Choir for Charity

B-52’s singer Kate Pierson has released a powerful new cover of Patti Smith’s “People Have the Power.” She collaborated with the teen choir from Uniting Voices Chicago. The track aims to inspire unity and support two important causes.

Proceeds from the song will benefit the choir’s nonprofit and Sandy Hook Promise. This organization works to protect children from gun violence. Pierson calls the song’s message of hope more urgent than ever.

Cover Honors Legacy While Forging New Path

Pierson shared that covering the iconic track felt daunting. She has long viewed Patti Smith as a major inspiration. Her goal was to create a version true to herself while honoring the original’s soul.

The idea was born from a discussion about the current political climate. According to Reuters, artists are increasingly using music for social advocacy. Pierson felt the lyrics were both poetic and desperately needed today.

She knew the cover needed a unique element to stand apart. The solution came with the inclusion of young voices. This collaboration bridges generations on a song about collective power.

Youth Choir Adds “Electric” Energy to Classic Track

The Uniting Voices Chicago teen choir brings a fresh vibrancy to the recording. Pierson described the moment their voices joined as something “electric” happening. Their participation symbolizes passing the torch to the next generation.

This partnership provides more than just musical harmony. It directly supports the choir’s music education programs. It also funds Sandy Hook Promise’s violence prevention initiatives.

Pierson expressed deep admiration for the collaborating students. She sees them as the next generation of global leaders. Their voices, she says, help build a future founded on unity and love.

The release of “People Have the Power” demonstrates music’s enduring role in social change. Kate Pierson’s collaboration proves the song’s message transcends generations. It reminds everyone that collective action can still reshape the world.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is Uniting Voices Chicago?

Uniting Voices Chicago is a nonprofit youth choir. It uses music to bridge cultural and social divides. The organization focuses on youth development through artistic collaboration.

Which organizations benefit from this song?

Proceeds support Uniting Voices Chicago’s programming. Funds also go to Sandy Hook Promise. This nonprofit leads gun violence prevention programs in schools.

Who originally wrote “People Have the Power”?

Patti Smith and her late husband, Fred “Sonic” Smith, wrote the song. It first appeared on her 1988 album ‘Dream of Life’. The track has since become a protest anthem.

Why did Kate Pierson choose this song?

She felt its message was urgently needed today. Pierson wanted to inspire people to recognize their collective power. The collaboration with youth makes the message feel future-focused.

How does this cover differ from the original?

It retains the song’s anthemic quality while incorporating a youth choir. The arrangement builds on the original’s energy. The choral elements add a new layer of communal hope.