(January 15, 2022) “The Bell Tolls For You,” the new song by J.D. Wesley with a powerful video directed and edited by Tyrone Corbett, is a musical and visual reminder that all of us have a role to play in bringing about the world that we want to see. Like so many inspirational songs written over the past few years, “The Bell Tolls For You” was inspired by the many crises, tragedies and travesties we have confronted in recent times, from the pandemic to economic crisis and the systematic racism that has resulted in the loss of life of so many black women and men.
The multiple challenges can cause people to lose faith and become disheartened. However, Wesley uses his powerful baritone to issue a clarion call and encourage his listeners not to give in to fear and discouragement, because at some moment the time will arrive for all people to stand for what is right and just. That moment might come when people must stand up for those who have been victimized by injustice or it might come when time comes to cast a ballot.
“The Bell Tolls For You” is a track that merges soul and R&B arrangements with a gospel inspired call to keep the faith. The video, where Wesley sings in front of statues and he names off unarmed black men and women killed by police or armed vigilantes, serves as a visual reminder of the risks of inaction, while the last frame finds Wesley standing in front of a bust of the late John Lewis in a call for civic engagement. Check out J.D. Wesley’s “The Bell Tolls For You” here.
By Howard Dukes