Story behind this song
Fulfilling a dream and trying to open minds; these are the two objectives of this song and website.
Even though the dream portion might sound self-centered, the lyrics and related thoughts described here, aim to raise questions through a reflection on today's United States of America and, by extension, on our own place in the world and our individual role in society.
Learn more about the authorWhy this song (music)?
“US Too” is based on the song “Jonquière” by Plume Latraverse and Stephen Faulkner which relates in french the memorable performance of the artist, under the influence, in the city of Jonquiere in Quebec (Canada). Originally written in 1989 this song was a big hit in Quebec mostly based on its true and sincere vibe conveyed both through the lyrics and the music. Touched by this song and moved by the music, English words and a different narrative naturally went through my mind. So, I wrote them down as I listened to the original song…
Meet the team behind the songWhy these lyrics?
As the first words made their mark on the paper, I was then as lost as many others around the world on the initial US tariffs announcements of the new administration. The next lines simply evolved by themselves around the thoughts of two of the Founding Fathers (Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin) looking down to the state of the US in this last stretch of year 2024. Written in a couple of hours the lyrics hardly changed throughout the tumultuous year 2025, during which the song was recorded almost a year after having been written.
The title, “US Too”, is a play with words that leaves the question open whether “US” stands for United States or “Us too” in the spirit of the “Me too” movement, or even a combination of both.
The choice of the picture for the song appears to be another piece of this puzzle with a teardrop crossing a US flag drawn on the cheek of a young woman. In the same spirit, the lyrics offer a somber picture of the general situation of the country but without ever taking position for a party or another, or laying blame on any specific person or policy for that matter.
Dive into the lyricsFinal thoughts
Would these really be the thoughts of the Framers if they could comment on today's America? The following disclaimer is certainly welcome.
This song is a work of fiction that imaginatively portrays Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin reflecting on the modern United States.
Except for the quotation “Lost time is never found again!” attributed to Benjamin Franklin, all thoughts, opinions, and statements expressed by these historical figures are creative interpretations and not actual historical views or documented writings. Their inclusion is intended solely for artistic expression.
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