Keith Carradine
Why I am a Born Again American: When Norman asked me to write "Born Again American" he did so with the suggestion that the song address several timely and timeless social and political issues. He was quite specific about reinforcing what our founders envisioned when they wrote our Constitution and Bill Of Rights; (ergo " my bible is The Bill Of Rights "). The secular ideals of Thomas Jefferson and Thomas Paine are what we need to remind ourselves of at this critical time in our Nation's history.
He also asked that there be personal stories that relate to what many are individually experiencing today, which I addressed in the verses about the working man, chassis welder and returning veteran. We need to return to the philosophy of "we're all in this together" and recover from the era of "every man for himself".
As a direct result of Norman's inspiring me to focus on these restorative ideas I can say without reservation that I am absolutely "born again" to my American citizenship and the responsibility that entails.
Short Bio: Keith Carradine, award winning actor and composer, worked closely with Norman Lear to write the music and lyrics for “Born Again American.” Keith has starred in over sixty feature films, four Broadway shows and released two albums of his music. He is married to actress Hayley DuMond.
Jim Dalton
Hometown: Denver, Colorado
Why I am a Born Again American: I sing the opening line, "I'm just a working man without a job." I was a
"working man" who was laid off of my job after 13 years of devoted
service. Like many Americans, I was informed by my company that it was
necessary to cut costs. With a family to support, I was concerned about
having to start all over again. I made a career change into real estate.
Unfortunately, the current mortgage crisis has made this a rocky road to
travel.
Like every parent, I want my kids to have a good life. Our country is in
trouble and we need to work together with our government to find ways to
create more jobs. I love our country and the principles upon which it is
based, but I do believe our government has gotten off track. It's time
to get our country back to where it belongs. I am proud that we as a
nation have made history in this year's presidential election. I have a
renewed hope for the future. That is why I consider myself a "Born Again
American."
Short Bio: Jim Dalton is no stranger to a hard day’s work. After being
laid off from his job of thirteen years, Jim had to take on multiple
jobs to support his growing family. In spite of his hardships, Jim looks
forward to a better future for his family, and for America.
Chad Van Rys
Hometown: Modesto, California
Why I am a Born Again American: I grew up on a farm near Modesto CA. working 6 days a week. On Sunday, my family would sing in Church. My Mom would play the piano and my Dad, Brother, Sister and I would sing. They called us "The Five C's".
But, before I did 4 years active duty in The Marines, there wasn't too much that I knew about really being an American. I didn't know anything about our Government, or how it worked, or even how involved I needed to be. I did three separate tours overseas with a lot of outstanding Americans. Knew quite a few people that made some real sacrifices to stand up for another country and their God given right to be treated fairly and to have a Government where their voice can be heard. Now that I understand what sacrifices the men made that served before me, I have a better understanding of my duties as an American, to have my voice be heard. Now, at 24 years old and as I serve out my last 4 years in Marines as an Individual Ready Reservist I will learn as much as I can about my Government. I will learn how to stay involved, active and well informed so that my wife and I can pass on the knowledge and responsibility to our family.
Short Bio: During his four years of active duty in the Marines, Chad Van Rhys learned what it means to make sacrifices for America. His experience overseas taught him the value of American freedom and the necessity of protecting it. Chad is currently a Ready Reservist in the Marines, and intends to teach the lessons he has learned to his children.
Kevin Moore II
Xiao-Dan Zheng
Hometown:
Why I am a Born Again American: I was born and raised in two communist countries: China and Russia. During my formative years, my parents and their friends never talked about politics. I later learned that, as a part of modern Chinese culture, people did not get involved in politics. The past turmoil and chaos had taught the Chinese to stay away from politics altogether. They had learned their lessons and realized that there was little they could do to change anything.
Eleven years ago, I came to America to study music at the Juilliard School, while my parents were given a chance to pursue the American Dream. During my teenage years, I learned that being an immigrant meant that I had to work twice as hard to get where I wanted to be. As for my parents, they found freedom in pursuing happiness separately. I obtained my independence in Los Angeles when I enrolled at USC in 2001. At that point, I had no identity, no nationalism, and plenty of cultures to choose from. I thought I had become a true American with all the options and possibilities ahead of me, yet I lacked a sense of belonging. Since joining a sorority did not appeal to me, I decided to do what I had always been taught: work hard and be adaptive. “Let your work speak for you,” my father always said to me. But deep down I wondered, “how much longer will I feel like a social spectator, and how much longer will I do what I am told?”
I became a U.S. citizen in 2007 after graduating from USC and winning positions in three local orchestras. I had become an American on paper and had what others would call a good starting point for my American Dreams of success, fame, and perhaps prosperity. The true value of American citizenship is the gift of independence, individuality, and the freedom to stand up for what one believes.
My parents still don’t talk about politics. However, they no longer discourage me from learning and talking about the American government. For now, they will remain spectators of this country, but perhaps not for long!
Short Bio: Born in China, raised in Russia, Xiao-Dan Zheng has truly lived the American Dream. Xiao-Dan has been playing the cello since age 5. After immigrating to New York City with her family, she attended to the Juilliard School pre-college division and graduated in 2001. While completing a Bachelor’s degree in cello performance at USC, Xiao-Dan performed with Itzhak Perlman, Yo Yo Ma, and soloed under the baton of Pinchas Zukerman.
Matt Thompson
Hometown: Vermillion, South Dakota
Why I am a Born Again American: I have been a self-employed musician for 20 years and have experienced both feast and famine. I often have the feeling that I am a barnacle on a whale riding a greater economic wave where the only influence that I perceive to have on my destiny is attempting to be in top physical and mental condition to perform my duties as a musician.
When I took the curious call to be part of a video shoot with the “Born Again American” project, I wasn’t sure what to make of it. The director, Mark Johnson, sent me to a web link and said it would better define the project. I sat cynically in front of the computer waiting for the clip to load: it was the “One Love” video and I was deeply moved. This project reflects the spirit of music and I have been genuinely touched by this wonderfully executed idea. After viewing the video, I scoured the website to try to uncover some secret corporate subplot of which I found none. This is the real deal. It saddens me to admit I have become this hardened and cynical. But, despite the greedy, commercial, and heartless nature of much of the music industry, it has never occurred to me to be anything else but a musician. It is who I am.
Additionally, the crew working on the shoot valued the musicians and their skill; this was demonstrated at the video shoot when Bobby Broom asked Mark where he wanted him to play fills. Mark smiled and said, ”Bobby you play where YOU want to play. That’s why you’re here.” In my professional career, I can’t remember the last time I heard that.
Short Bio: Matt Thompson’s performance experience spans from violin and contrabass in professional classical ensembles to rock, but he focuses mainly on his work as a jazz bassist. He is a father of three wonderful children, a vegan, marathon runner, and enjoys boxing in his spare time.
Luke Buckett
Hometown: Beacon, NY
Why I am a Born Again American: My name is Luke Buckett, born and raised in the big-small town of Beacon, NY. I've been playing and making music since I was a little kid in my backyard or wherever my adventures led me, and now at age 24 I have been blessed to make it my living. The project Born Again American is very special to me and close to my heart. Not only because of the great vibe and musical aspect but because of what it stands for. It's about peace, love, hope in the midst of turmoil, and making a stand when most people prefer to sit down. Sure there are plenty of things going wrong all around us, but people like Jesus, Bob Marley, Beethoven, and Ghandi have all shown us that it is far more important to shed a little light than complain in the darkness. That is my life creed and that is why I joined in on Born Again American
Short Bio: Luke Buckett has been playing and making music since he was a child. Now, at age 24, he has been blessed to make his living as a professional musician. Currently he performs at a black gospel church in Compton, he also plays with the Mitchel Musso Band (male star of Hannah Montana). Luke has also started his own rock band, called Regal, with influences ranging from the Beatles, U2, Oasis, and his gospel roots.
Bobby Broom
Short Bio: Born in Harlem and raised on the Upper West Side of NYC, Bobby Broom took up guitar at 12 and five years later, in 1977, made his first appearance with Sonny Rollins at Carnegie Hall. He went on to tour and record with Rollins in 1981- 86. By the time he was 21, Broom had debuted as a leader with Clean Sweep (GRP). He relocated to Chicago later in the decade, working with Kenny Burrell, Stanley Turrentine, Charles Earland, Miles Davis, and Dr. John, among others. Broom has also been active as a jazz educator, most recently for six years on the faculty of DePaul University. He began the new millennium by refocusing on his own music, especially his Bobby Broom Trio and the Deep Blue Organ Trio, and has recorded with both for the Origin label (his Song and Dance was released in spring 2007, The Way I Play in April 2008, and Deep Blue’s Folk Music came out in fall 2007). Broom rejoined Rollins’s band in 2005 and was featured on the saxophonist’s Grammy-nominated CD Sonny, Please.
Keith Sanchez
Why I am a Born Again American: I think the lyrics and vision of “Born again American” really strike a note with me because I was an American kid who ended up being taken to El Salvador, Central America where I witnessed the ferocity with which overt oppression and civil war can act. I remember learning of young Salvadorans not much older than I being killed for speaking their minds. It was in the deep late nights amidst the rumble and glow of distant battle that I set my pondering eyes north to my native United States. I became impassioned with a constitution that allowed for free speech and the right to assembly. I was also awestruck as I witnessed first hand the support of my nation’s government for a power structure that utilized military and vigilante death squad might against the innocent and punished free speech with imprisonment and massacre. It seemed to me that the beautiful ideals that I felt were the heart of our great democratic experiment were being pushed aside to further “American interests” in the hemisphere. It was then at a young age that I was a “born again American” in the sense that my youthful, carefree skin was forever shed and I not only longed for a more just world, but I wanted my country to truly be the beacon for the world I believe it had once set out to be. Like John Lennon said “ you may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one”.
Short Bio: Keith Sanchez grew up in a small town in the heart of the New Mexican Desert. He started learning guitar at the age of six and was, in his own words “the tiniest member of the town’s Catholic choir.” At a young age, his father’s work took the family to El Salvador where he immersed himself in the local culture. Eventually, he relocated back to the U.S. to join the American music scene. His music takes inspiration from his life experience – a mixture of American road music, artful reflection, and political commentary.
Erin Dzierwa
Hometown: Toledo, Ohio
Why I am a Born Again American: Being involved with Born Again American has reminded me of a very great life lesson: every single person has their own story, their own hardships and their own power within to inspire. Being a single parent of three young children isn’t easy. I was honored to be asked to be a part of this project because I’m just an every day working mom from the Midwest. I was born, raised and currently reside in Toledo, Ohio, and I have seen and experienced how tough life can be sometimes… for myself and for my friends and family. I grew up watching my mom work long, crazy hours as a bartender so that my brother and I could have the good things in life… and we did. There was a time that I was naïve enough to think that hardships like losing your job and your home could never happen to people like me… until I watched it happen to my bother. It’s a big eye opener when you see an educated, hardworking person lose everything. Especially hope.
Like a lot of Americans, we have been through it all: job loss, home foreclosures and working two or three jobs just to pay the bills, and somehow we’ve managed to get through it. I do consider myself a very lucky person. I’ve had a good education; I have a stable job, and a roof over my head. However, I will say that it is the people in my life that make me the most fortunate.
Born Again American is special to me because it is proof that when people come together with a common cause and passion, they can achieve great things. I believe that pertains to my life personally and to our country as a whole. As we enter this fragile stage in our country’s history, I am inspired by the countless “Born Again” American citizens that have banded together to make their voices heard; and I am proud to be one of the voices conveying that message in “Born Again American.”
Short Bio: As a single mother of three, Erin Dzierwa has seen it all: job loss, home foreclosures, working multiple jobs just to stay afloat. In the Born Again American movement, Erin sees a chance for all Americans to band together and make this country a better place.
Harlem Gospel Choir
Short Bio: The world famous Harlem Gospel Choir is the most famous gospel choir in America and a pre-eminent gospel choir worldwide. It travels the globe, sharing its joy of faith through its music, & raising funds for children's charities. The theme of every performance is "bringing people & nations together & giving something back". With every performance the choir share the Renaissance of Harlem's culture with the audience.
All Saints Episcopal
Hometown: Pasadena, California
Why We are Born Again Americans: The Choir of All Saints Church totals over 100 auditioned volunteers who lead this progressive and dynamic 4,000-member Episcopal church in repertoire which spans the spectrum of choral music — from gospel, jazz and world music to traditional full scale orchestral/choral works. In addition to tours throughout the U.S. and performances for regional and national conferences of professional choral organizations, the choir has performed several concerts at Walt Disney Concert Hall with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. The choirs have been under the direction of James Walker since 1991.
At All Saints, we believe that each day we’re born again in God’s love that strengthens and empowers us to love all of our sisters and brothers in the human family. Thus, we are filled with joy and hope, as we work together to bring God’s love, justice, truth, reconciliation, and peace to the whole world.
Short Bio: The Choir of All Saints Church totals over 100 auditioned volunteers who lead this progressive and dynamic 4,000-member Episcopal church in repertoire which spans the spectrum of choral music — from gospel, jazz and world music to traditional full scale orchestral/choral works.
Cantor Patti Linsky
Hometown: Northridge, CA
Why I am a Born Again American: I am often asked, "Don't cantors just sing?" For the past twenty-three years, I have been very active at Temple Ahavat Shalom, and among my many responsibilities besides my musical inspirations are leading prayer services, teaching adult, teen and children's choirs, adult education, officiating at life cycle services, visiting the sick, counseling people in her congregation, and being blessed to work in a profession I adore.
When I was driving up the mountain to Mount Rushmore, I knew that something very important was about to happen. Yes, I was about to take part in the making of "Born Again American", which was a tremendous honor in itself. But I wasn't prepared for the intense emotional feelings that such an experience would bring forth from me. Standing at the base of Mount Rushmore with our forefathers, with the weather a powerful mix of clouds, sun, snow, rain and wind was powerful beyond belief. Then, to hear the song coming through in the headphones...that combination of passion for our Country, and for all She stands for, for all We stand for... it blew me away.
That day was one of the most important days of my life. I will never forget it. I will never forget the gift of being a Born Again American. I have always been proud, but until that day on the mountain, I never knew how proud I could truly feel. I am blessed. I have hope. I want to give back what I have been given to make this world better."
Short Bio: Cantor Patti Linsky is a spiritual leader in the Jewish community. She has led her congregation through good times and bad, using the power of song to inspire and mobilize them.
Mu’azzin Benyoucef
Why I am a Born Again American: In the years following 9/11, it became difficult to be a Muslim in America. The fear and uncertainty I encountered on a day-to-day basis made it hard for me to consider this country my home. Working and collaborating with the artists on Born Again American gave me hope and made me feel at home in America again.
Short Bio: Ben Youcef was born in Algiers on the Mediterranean Coast into a family of seven children. Fighting for attention among his brothers and sisters, he says, is probably where his acting career really began. His father was an Algerian diplomat stationed in Saudi Arabia for most of his childhood. After spending a few years in London studying Business and Theater, Ben moved to America to pursue his acting career.
David Hernandez
Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
Why I am a Born Again American: For me, being a Born Again American is about changing our perception towards America and the world and realizing that it is not too late to make a difference. It is about staying true to the principles that this country was founded on and applying them towards our best future yet. It is about realizing that change has to start with us and start now.
This project gave me the opportunity to use my talent and reach out through music. For that, I am eternally grateful. The lyrics are powerful and encompass what it is to be A Born Again American. I hope the song, the beautiful singers and musicians that I had the fortunate opportunity to collaborate with, inspire our country in a big way.
This coming year brings a new hope to my life and to the lives of others. I am, now more than ever, proud to be an American. A Born Again American!”
Short Bio: David Hernandez is a Mexican-American singer/songwriter/actor born in Phoenix Arizona and raised by his mother and grandmother. David knows firsthand how hard it can be to stand tall, keep the faith and still face the struggles the world throws at you every day. He says, “My faith in America, and in all humanity, is stronger than ever and keeps growing everyday as I see people doing good deeds, helping their neighbors and reaching across political and racial divides.”
Tarrah Reynolds
Hometown: Milwaukee, WI
Short Bio: Tarrah Reynolds is a freelance violinist living in Brooklyn, New York. She started violin lessons at the age of seven in Milwaukee, Wisconsin through the public school system. When she was twelve, Tarrah made her solo debut with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. She went on to win numerous awards and competitions during her high school years. At age seventeen, Tarrah began her studies at The Juilliard School and has been in New York ever since. She often plays in non-classical settings with artists such as Kanye West, Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, Lauryn Hill, The Gorillaz, and Mos Def. Tarrah is also a singer/songwriter/guitarist and performs from time to time in the NYC area.
Reverend Timothy McDonald III
Hometown: Brunswick, GA
Why I am a Born Again American: I was born in 1954 when the Civil Rights Movement was just taking root. Being an African American and at an early age going to the back of the theatre for a ticket, or seeing for coloreds only signs, I knew that this was not the America that I was reading about in history books. I was struck by the ideas of freedom, equality, and justice for ALL. I knew in my spirit that I was a part of ALL. So I became a Born Again American around the age of 9 and worked with the NAACP Youth Division and fought to integrate the school system. I knew that America could never be all that she could be, until I was allowed to be all that I could be. I am a Born Again American, not because I hate, despise or reject America, or her ideas, but because I love, appreciate, admire America, and I am called to challenge America to live out that which she states on paper for ALL of its citizens.
Short Bio: Reverend Timothy McDonald, III is a native of Brunswick Georgia where he was nurtured in the fear and admonition of Almighty God. Reverend McDonald is married to Mrs. Shirley McDonald, and they are the parents of three children, Nikisha, Timothy IV., and Ebony. Rev. McDonald currently serves as the Senior Pastor of First Iconium Baptist Church located in Southeast Atlanta.
Reverend Davidson Loehr
Why I am a Born Again American: Why I am a Born Again American: I was drawn to the People for the American Way through Norman Lear, and took part in the Remix America project at his request. I’d probably do anything for Norman. We met after he had read my 2004 sermon, “Living under Fascism,” and I was hooked on him as soon as I met him.
But as a liberal minister, I have preached on honesty (in religion and all things), integrity, and “salvation by character” for a quarter century. These are always necessary messages, but seldom moreso than since 2000 – or 1980.
Short Bio: Reverend Davidson Loehr is a former combat photographer with US Army in Vietnam, earned Ph.D. in religion from University of Chicago and have been a Unitarian minister since 1986.
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