Trump's despair leads folk icon Joan Baez back to the studio

Iconic American folk musician Joan Baez revealed to AFP that the political resurgence of Donald Trump has motivated her to return to the recording studio, where she has recently completed a new protest track. The legendary 1960s activist, known for her anti-war and social justice advocacy, will collaborate on a duet with fellow American folk singer Jesse Welles, performing his anti-Trump song "No Kings".

"I love working with younger artists, and this song suits my voice beautifully. It was an absolute pleasure," the 85-year-old Baez shared from Paris, noting that the track is scheduled for release within the next ten days.

She praised Welles, 33, describing his songwriting as fresh and unlike anything she has encountered. "The world needs an anthem that everyone can sing. People dont need to know all the verses; just chant the 'No Kings, no Kings, no Kings' part," Baez added.

Baez's previous release was Whistle Down the Wind in 2018. Welles, whose recent work also addresses Trump and the Jeffrey Epstein case, released "Join Ice," a satirical critique of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement department. Known for his witty lyrics and distinctive nasal voice, Welles draws natural comparisons to Baez's former partner Bob Dylan. Baez remarked, "There are similarities, but Dylan remains on the pedestal he deserves."

Last years acclaimed Dylan biopic, A Complete Unknown, brought renewed attention to Baezs relationship with Dylan, with Timothe Chalamet portraying him. Baez expressed satisfaction with her portrayal by Monica Barbaro, who consulted her during filming, and noted the increased public recognition that followed.

Baez has also been introduced to younger audiences through collaborations with Lana Del Rey and Taylor Swift. Swift invited her on stage in 2015, while Del Rey performed alongside her and later wrote a 2021 song inspired by a night out together. Baez complimented Swift for her generosity and praised Del Rey for encouraging younger fans to discover Baezs legacy.

In her personal life, Baez spends time painting, caring for chickens at her Southern California home, and focusing on autobiographical work. She contributed to the 2023 documentary Joan Baez: I Am a Noise, sharing personal struggles with depression, substance abuse, and trauma from her early life. Her latest book of poetry collects decades of writings, including pieces created during periods of dissociative identity disorder.

Despite ongoing challenges with nightmares and melancholy, Baez says the past decade has been the happiest of her life. "At 85, Im letting go of a lot of things. Who cares?" she laughed. After her final tour in 2019, she no longer performs on guitar. "I want to leave a truthful legacy through my poems, music, and documentary. I aim to close this chapter honestly," she concluded.

Author: Jackson Miller