From her forthcoming album Reclamation, Crys Matthews’ “Cancel Culture,” is an unflinching declaration that boldly addresses the fear of speaking up in today’s world. Known for weaving together folk, Americana, and blues, Crys delivers a song with the authenticity of someone who has lived every note and word. The song picks up where her previous track “Changemakers” left off, carrying forward her mission to amplify unheard voices and confront societal discomfort head-on.
What sets “Cancel Culture” apart is its fearless exploration of silence and action. Crys draws from personal experiences, describing her journey as a Black woman and folk artist performing in spaces where she’s often the only person who looks like her.
“And because of the type of music that I sing, inevitably at the end of the night, someone would come up to me and say some version of ‘You’re just so brave talking about all of this stuff — I think that I would be so scared of being canceled that I would just stay quiet. The audacity of that, the notion of staying quiet in the face of something that you yourself know is wrong.”
This raw honesty in her storytelling connects directly to the audience, urging them to reconsider what should truly be ‘cancelled’ in society.
Anchored in Crys’ signature blend of rich, roots-based melodies, with striking harmonies, the song’s message is underscored by a musical backdrop that is as powerful as the lyrics.
“Cancel Culture” isn’t just a song but a call to action. A reminder that staying silent in the face of injustice is a choice. Crys’ voice serves as both a rallying cry and a comfort, encouraging others to speak their truths without fear.
