In recognition of Black History Month, Atwood Magazine has encouraged artists to contribute to a collection of essays exploring themes of identity, music, culture, inclusion, and more.
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Today, Berlin-based vocalist/emcee/pianist Sean Haefeli presents his essay titled ‘Reverence, Resonance, Amplified Future,’ discussing his latest single, “Battle Cry,” as part of Atwood Magazine’s Black History Month series!
Sean Haefeli is a creative pianist-vocalist and lyricist-composer who blends modernity with traditional skills. He embodies a new generation of artists trained in jazz, soul, and hip-hop, showcasing the flow of an emcee, the melodic sensibilities of a singer, and the improvisational skills of a jazz pianist.
Originally from Indianapolis, Sean began piano lessons at an early age, later expanding into vocal performance. During his time at university, his musical journey took him to Chicago, where he immersed himself in the city's vibrant artistic scene, performing in spoken-word, hip-hop, and jazz venues. While in Chicago, he produced and released three albums, each guiding the listener on a diverse and personal voyage, drawing influences from artists ranging from Gil Scott-Heron to Bobby McFerrin and Myka 9.
With an adventurous spirit, Sean was enchanted by Berlin during a visit and made the spontaneous decision to relocate. Since then, he has performed throughout Europe, earning recognition from influential figures like Gilles Peterson and Lefto, and establishing himself through various collaborations, including work with Jazzanova and The Polish Ambassador.
His new single, “Battle Cry,” reflects the broad themes of his upcoming album, ‘Flying Broken Form.’ Read his essay below and listen to “Battle Cry” on your preferred music streaming platform!
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by Sean Haefeli
Reflecting on my earliest musical memories, “Battle Cry” begins with a profound gospel essence.
An analog synth replaces the organ, accompanied by a stripped-back beat and heartfelt lyrics: “lead me to the water, lead me to your battle cry, no one knows how this will end.”
This introduction transports me back to the New Bethel Baptist Church in Indianapolis, where my family has a long-standing history. As a child, I distinctly remember being moved by music and the electrifying energy that filled the church when its members became imbued with the spirit.
The track then shifts to a richer sonic landscape, contemplative and inquisitive: “amplified future, disembodied past, a handful of sutras, hope I’m up to task to last and go the distance…”
It once seemed as though each generation made slight progress. Many of us believed in this trajectory, as it was all we had known. I clearly recall the sense of euphoria at a concert I performed in Paris celebrating President Obama’s election. It felt like America had reached a significant milestone, suggesting we were making strides toward racial equality and justice. However, in retrospect, many of us were overly optimistic. The reality that regression can happen is now painfully clear; historical narratives can be rewritten or erased, leaving the future uncertain.
The chorus echoes, “fighting, praying, swearing, debating, can you tell me we’re going to find a way?”
Conflict permeates our existence, whether in personal relationships, politics, or psychological struggles. How these conflicts will be resolved remains unclear, as the road ahead is obscured.
The meditative opening reappears: “lead me to the water…”
When I examine America—its economic inequality, violence, incarceration rates, racism, addiction, and depression—I sense a moral decline. These issues cannot be resolved through technology alone; a deeper, humanistic, and spiritual introspection is required.
The next verse is one I have long aspired to write. Both its form and content carry significant emotional weight, honesty, and artistic integrity. Listening back has often brought me to tears.
“Bodies wash up on the shoreline, seagulls sing soliloquies
The heart's found a tactic, insulate myself from entropy
But it’s no way to live if I can’t feel the synergy
Open up my heart and fall back on tendencies
When you see the pattern but still go on pretending
Deeper in depression but can’t control what’s happening
Allow yourself imagination still ascending
Release the fear, new beginnings…”
I oscillate between the external and internal, seeking ways to navigate and understand it all. The necessary healing, hope, and imagination in the face of tragedy and malevolent forces are crucial: “can you tell me we’re going to find a way?”
The essay closes with a prayerful tone, “lead me to the water, lead me to your battle cry, no one knows how this will end.” The historical trajectory remains ambiguous. Overcoming our current situation requires immense capability to
Berlin-based artist Sean Haefeli presents his essay, ‘Reverence, Resonance, Amplified Future,’ discussing his new single, “Battle Cry,” as part of Atwood Magazine's Black History Month series!