I’m working on a blog that will be titled something like “songs about war,” a post that’s inspired by a group of celebrities and athletes who came together as a choir to support troops in Operation Desert Storm way back in 1991. Watching the music video on YouTube, I’m utterly shocked at how many singers and celebrities took part in the project. There is no possible way an endeavor like that would be successful in 2023, with the way politics are now. A lot of celebrities who are still around, still relevant (this was shot over 30 years ago, remember) have become so anti-war, or pro-war, polarized in their respective political corners that they wouldn’t dare share the stage with someone who doesn’t agree with everything exactly the way they believe. I can’t even fathom typing out all the names listed, so for the full rundown check out the Wikipedia page Voices That Care. You might be shocked who appears in the video.
My dad served in Operation Desert Storm (and dominated the enemy might I add!), so even as a middle-school-aged kid, I was sort of aware of what was going, even if I probably didn’t understand most of it, though. I remember this song very well. It’s a special memento of a unique time in American history. I just had no idea how many singers and celebrities joined in for the all-star choir. Crazy.
It also makes me nostalgic and sad. It’s a bummer that things have changed culturally, since then. Celebrities who would reject the idea of appearing in public with someone they don’t agree with. Some might be anti-war so they wouldn’t dare be part of a project supporting a current war, even if it were meant to encourage the military men and women in that war. It seems mostly political now and that’s so discouraging for the future of the United States.
I hope we can get back to a more unified country. One where, in spite of our political affiliations or lack thereof, we can find common ground and for Pete’s sake, lighten up!
I didn’t know there was a documentary with the same name, “Voices That Care.” I encourage you to watch it when you have time. I thought it was so interesting to see how the song came together and to hear the encouragement from all the celebrities.
-Out of the Wilderness
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