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“Run for cover“ by Sheykh Forever

“Run for cover” by Sheykh Forever is an alternative folk song that draws on both rock and pop influences to create an eclectic arrangement that is intimate and expansive at the same time. Written, recorded, and produced by the Iraqi-born artist Mostafa Al, who is behind Sheykh Forever, “Run for cover” is a thoughtful and meaningful anti-war song. Music has always been a form of art that people turn to for political statements and societal reflection, and Sheykh Forever joins the rank of powerful and inspiring musicians who use their art to say something impactful. 

Lyrics like “if you’re not careful you’ll end up alone without a home” show the harsh realities of living in war, where your family and home could disappear in the blink of an eye with no warning. This particular line is shortly followed by the sound of an explosion, which adds to the tension created by the lyrics. The end of the song repeats the line “how many of us have to die?” as the production and background vocals build and shift. This repetition matches the desperation of the statement, and the lack of an answer from people in power who could put a stop to war. Some of the non-lyrical ad libs have a youthful texture, as if sung by children, which poignantly reminds the listener how many innocent people suffer at the hands of senseless violence.

The grooving rhythms, upbeat instrumentation, and almost joyful melodies contrast with the dark subject matter, thoughtfully mimicking the disparity between war torn, grief ravaged countries, and the rest of the world going on about their lives. 

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