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I Talk to the Wind

by Genevieve Marentette

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This is the second single in a series of songs from 1969.

A King Crimson classic, a rare gem from their progressive rock album "In the Court of the Crimson King."

My arrangement features Eric St-Laurent on guitar, George Koller on bass, Ben Wittman on drums, and a stunning string interlude by Grammy-nominated Drew Jurecka. My interpretation was shaped by my 2019 singing residency amidst Hong Kong's political unrest. To me, the song's lyrics reflect the isolation and struggle for meaning that many social activists across generations experience.

The inspiration for this project is deeply personal, drawing from my close mentorship with legendary musician David Clayton-Thomas of Blood Sweat & Tears and his generation's steadfast commitment to social activism. In 1969, Clayton-Thomas reached the zenith of his career as Blood Sweat and Tears won the Grammy for Best Album and played at Woodstock. Also in 1969, my mom, Linda, at 18, left her job at the UAW in Windsor and relocated to Toronto to aid the draft dodgers of the Vietnam War. Her mother was motivated by social justice, human rights, and peace ideals that fueled most musicians at the time.

To this day, Clayton-Thomas is deeply frustrated by the state of global affairs, while my mom remains eternally optimistic about the efforts of future generations.

"I Talk to the Wind" captures the sentiments of activists who continue pursuing societal transformation despite feeling alienated or unheard. The lyrics resonate as powerfully today as they did in 1969, suggesting that seeking change sometimes feels akin to talking to the wind. "I dedicate this song to my elder activists and their unwavering commitment to social justice," I state, hoping to honour the enduring spirit of activism and the impact of music as a medium for conveying messages of love and hope.

Cover photo by Cornelia Pierce, on a trash heap outside of Berlin.

This project could not have taken place without the generous support of my incredible community and my label, Vesuvius Music. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the privilege of making and releasing music.

credits

released November 24, 2023
☞ CREDITS: MA✓P✓L

"I Talk to the Wind" by King Crimson


Vocals: Genevieve Marentette

Strings: Drew Jurecka

Guitar: Eric St-Laurent

Bass: George Koller

Drums: Ben Wittman


Recorded at Canterbury Music Co. & RC Studios, Toronto

Mixed & Mastered by Rob Christian


[Vesuvius Music Inc. / IDLA]

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Genevieve Marentette Toronto, Ontario

Photo-Dale Sood
Genevieve “Gigi” Marentette is a vocalist and producer based in Toronto, Ontario. A co-founder of the "Kensington Market Jazz Festival", and "Cover One Another Concerts", she loves to collaborate on community driven projects. Genevieve accepts song requests and "Lost Highway" was commissioned as a gift. And YAY - Friends are jumping on with remixes! ... more

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