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Sylvia (The Seshen Remix)

by Emily Afton

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about

I wrote this song after watching a documentary called The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson a few years ago. I learned a lot from that documentary, about the history of the LGBTQ movement and about who Sylvia Rivera was. I became extremely moved by her spirit and role within the movement.

After writing it, I wanted to get in touch with someone who knew Sylvia closely in real life before releasing the song. After doing some research, I was able to get the contact information of one of her close friends and fellow famed LGBTQ activist, Victoria Cruz. I almost couldn’t believe it when I called the number and she actually picked up.

Victoria Cruz and I spoke on the phone about Sylvia’s life and character, what she loved, what she didn’t like, etc. Afterwards, Ms. Cruz sent me photos in the mail of her and Sylvia together, as well as the program from Sylvia’s memorial. I sent her a CD copy of the original track. The remixed version (out June 30th, 2023) was produced by one of my favorite bands, The Seshen, and all proceeds will go to the Sylvia Rivera Law Project.

The photo used in the remix artwork is one of the photos Victoria sent me in the mail, which features herself and Sylvia marching in a rally. I feel so honored that she spoke with me and that I was able to have a tiny window into two such incredible activists and people's worlds.

lyrics

You know your heart, it never leaves
Once you're gone, once you're gone
And your part wasn't the lead
In the movie, Sylvia
In the movie, Sylvia

Where you can have whatever you want, go baby, go
Where you can have whatever you want, go baby, go

Sylvia, I wanna give you back what they took
I wanna write your name in the books
And make sure that everybody reads you

Sylvia, your heart beats in the Stonewall
The rainbow kids, we owe all
Our freedoms to you and Marsha P

Oh, keep your tenderness, it is your strength
Don't let them tell you that it makes you weak

Sylvia, I wanna give you back what they took
I wanna write your name in the books
And make sure that everybody reads you

Sylvia, I wanna give you back what they took
I wanna write your name in the books
And make sure that everybody reads you

credits

released June 30, 2023

license

all rights reserved

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