About The Song
(Watch the video below)
John Lennon, a former Beatle and a towering figure in music history, is as well known for his contributions to peace activism and social justice as for his musical genius. One of the clearest examples of Lennon's activism is "Attica State" a song that not only showcases his talent but also his commitment to speaking out against injustice. This song, co-written with his wife, Yoko Ono, was released on the 1972 album "Some Time in New York City." The song was a direct response to the Attica Prison uprising of 1971, a landmark event in the history of the American prison system and a moment that deeply moved Lennon and Ono.
To fully appreciate "Attica State" it's crucial to understand the events that inspired it. In September 1971, inmates at Attica Correctional Facility in New York staged a riot and took control of the prison, demanding better living conditions and rights. The situation escalated, leading to a four-day standoff that ended with a bloody retaking of the prison by law enforcement. The aftermath was brutal: 43 people were dead, including 10 correctional officers and civilian employees, and 33 inmates. The incident exposed the dire conditions within the American prison system and sparked a national debate on prison reform and the broader issues of social justice and human rights.
"Attica State" is a direct and impassioned response to these events. The lyrics of the song do not mince words; they vividly portray the violence of the retaking and mourn the loss of life, while also criticizing the media's portrayal of the inmates and calling for justice and reform. Lennon's and Ono's anger and frustration with the system are palpable throughout the song. They challenge listeners to question and confront the societal structures that allow such tragedies to occur.
Musically, "Attica State" is a departure from the psychedelic and experimental sounds that characterized much of Lennon's work with the Beatles and some of his solo projects. Instead, the song has a raw, unpolished quality that matches the urgency of its message. The guitar riffs are sharp and the rhythm is driving, creating a sense of immediacy and anger. Lennon's vocal performance is one of his most powerful, conveying both rage and sorrow with every line.
The release of "Attica State" was met with mixed reactions. Some praised Lennon for using his platform to shine a light on such a critical issue, while others criticized him for what they saw as exploiting a tragedy for political purposes. Regardless of these differing views, the song played a significant role in raising awareness about the Attica uprising and the conditions that led to it.
More broadly, "Attica State" is a testament to Lennon's and Ono's commitment to activism. Throughout his career, Lennon used his music as a tool for social change, advocating for peace, equality, and human rights. This song is just one example of how he sought to engage with the political and social issues of his time, challenging his audience to do the same.
"Attica State" stands as a powerful reminder of John Lennon's legacy as both a musician and an activist. It encapsulates his ability to respond to the world around him with both sensitivity and a call to action. While the song specifically addresses the Attica Prison uprising, its themes of justice, accountability, and the need for systemic change are universal. Lennon's work, both in music and activism, continues to inspire new generations to imagine a better world and to take steps toward making it a reality. In "Attica State," Lennon and Ono created not just a song but a rallying cry for all who believe in the power of music to effect change and challenge injustice.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
What a waste of human power
What a waste of human lives
Shoot the prisoners in the towers
Forty-three poor widowed wives
Attica State, Attica State
We're all mates with Attica State
Media blames it on the prisoners
But the prisoners did not kill
Rockefeller pulled the trigger
That is what the people feel
Attica State, Attica State
We're all mates with Attica State
Free the prisoners, jail the judges
Free all prisoners everywhere
All they want is truth and justice
All they need is love and care
Attica State, Attica State
We're all mates with Attica State
They all live in suffocation
Let's not watch them die in sorrow
Now's the time for revolution
Give them all a chance to grow
Attica State, Attica State
We're all mates with Attica State
Come together, join the movement
Take a stand for human rights
Fear and hatred clouds our judgement
Free us all from endless night
Attica State, Attica State
We're all mates with Attica State
