Joy Zimmerman “Be the Reason”
Americana Highways presents this video premiere of Joy Zimmerman’s song “Be the Reason” from her forthcoming album. “Be the Reason” was produced by Joy Zimmerman with Maggie Heeren; recorded and mixed by Maggie Heeren at La Luna Recording & Sound; and mastered by Anna Frick, Ally Sound. Some additional recording was courtesy of Duane Trower and Ryan Dugan.
“Be the Reason” is Joy Zimmerman on vocals, acoustic guitar, and violin; Ryan Dugan on acoustic and electric guitars, and harmony vocals; Carolyn Koebel on percussion; Andrew Stinson on bass; and Danielle Anderson on harmony vocals.
The footage for the video is a soothing balm on the wounds of fear and sorrow that are stoked daily in the world around us right now. It starts with hopeful images of kids, forests filled with wildlife, with Joy calling on us to reach out, stand up, and support others: “be the reason somebody’s hopeful.” Set on a foundation of acoustic guitar and violin, this is a folk song directly grounded in hope. Just in time for Pride Month, this song is an inspiration and a motivation.
This video was produced by Linda Dill and Joy Zimmerman.
I wanted the video for “Be the Reason” to embody the invitation of the song’s lyrics. While we are bombarded by heartbreaking news each day, I called on the ever-present power of beauty, kindness, and equality. Weaving together these stirring, poignant images was as healing as writing and recording the song itself. We filmed my performances in favorite locations – an Oregon forest, the InterUrban ArtHouse, and our backyard. With new research showing that nature photos can relieve pain, I am optimistic that images of hope can do the same. May this song be an antidote that bolsters us and inspire action. – Joy Zimmerman
Find the music and more information here on her BandCamp page:
https://joyzimmerman.bandcamp.com/track/be-the-reason