OpCritical returns with “USA,” a bold, genre-blending protest anthem tackling political unrest, social injustice, and global oppression—fusing raw energy, diverse influences, and a powerful call to awareness, unity, and action.
1. Your
new single “USA” is a bold and politically charged release. What was the exact
moment or situation that pushed you to write this song?
Once Donald Trump became president and started attacking all of our institutions and alliances, and marginalizing people, we knew we had to speak out boldly.
2. The track blends punk, rock, trap, and even an Arabic-inspired vocal
melody. How did you approach combining these diverse influences into one
cohesive sound?
People listen to all types of music now, so we wanted to do something that would both appeal to a large audience and shake up the listener. The mix was fun, and having the Arabic line along with a punk call to action helped set the song apart.
3. The lyrics paint a picture of chaos but also carry a strong message of
hope and action. How do you balance anger and optimism in your songwriting?
We are big believers in using music to inspire listeners to do something. Being angry by itself is not helpful, and protest songs are meant to fire people up. So we set the narrative, and then called to action.
4. The “USA” music video is packed with intense imagery and symbolism. Can
you tell us more about the creative process behind the visuals?
Yes, we are trying to create art that inspires with our videos without being tacky, so for this video, we chose many images that not only depict chaos but also show that change is possible.
5. Your debut single “Not Alone” went viral with over 600,000 views. Did
that response change your expectations or direction for “USA”?
We were blown away by the response to "Not Alone," along with tons of radio play and reviews. For an unknown, anonymous band, it is really extraordinary. But it shows that the music speaks when the time is right. And yes, it set a benchmark for us to continue to put out badass music and videos that will make a difference in the world.
6. Both songs tackle serious social and political issues. Do you see
OpCritical primarily as a protest band, or is there a broader artistic identity
you want to explore?
Right now, there is a critical danger from authoritarianism in the US and elsewhere, so we wanted to tackle this head-on while the danger persists. That said, we will be releasing songs about many other subjects like the war(s), not accepting being put in a box, etc. We don't plan to release love songs or pop songs.
7. You’ve addressed topics like ICE and Border Patrol in “Not Alone.” How
important is it for you to directly confront real-world issues in your music?
We are not
fans of using euphemisms or looking the other way. Sometimes, the truth needs
to be told so a person's gaze can't be avoided. Many people today are afraid to
confront the danger we are facing because they fear retribution. But they will
do something if they know they are not alone.
8. The line “rise up, fight back, wake up, act up” feels like a clear call
to action. What kind of impact do you hope listeners take from this message?
Many people today are complacent and lost in social media hypnosis. They need to understand that together, they can do something positive, but sometimes, they have to be told what to do. We hope our music will inspire them.
9. The inclusion of an Arabic vocal element is particularly striking. What
inspired that choice, and what does it represent within the song’s message?
We have been greatly influenced by all kinds of music and have no problem meshing different styles. That said, the use of the Arabic line sung by a female was purposeful because so many women in foreign countries are being marginalized and even abused. The lyrics in "USA" can apply to the situation in many countries. So we are saying, "if you are being oppressed and your leaders lie to keep you that way, do something to change it."
10. You mentioned plans to release dozens of songs and videos in response to
current events. Can you give us a glimpse into what’s coming next?
We have recorded dozens of songs and have created a pipeline to finish production, mixing, and mastering at a top level. Because of the sheer volume of the material, we have multiple producers, mixers, and filmmakers involved so there is no lag time. We plan to release something every three weeks for the remainder of the year. The next release will be either "Not My America," or "Doing Fine." We have a few covers with changed lyrics that are very cool including, "Change The World," "The Wall," and "For What It's Worth."
11. Protest music has a long history. Which artists or movements have
influenced OpCritical’s approach to making socially conscious music?
We are big fans of socially conscious artists such as Billie Holiday with "Strange Fruit," many Beatles tunes, the punk era of music like Black Flag and Rise Against, and, of course, the more laid-back protest songs of Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and others.
12. Finally, if someone listens to “USA” for the first time today, what is
the one feeling or thought you hope stays with them after the song ends?
First, we
hope they are happy that there is a band that does not use AI, and loves real
instruments, played live in the studio. Second, we hope they appreciate the
musicianship as well as the message. And third, we hope they will be inspired
by something new and fearless. We believe people are looking for music to
inspire. Pop songs and love songs have their place, but we want people to say,
"hell yes, that's what I have been missing."
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