Their cover of Nelson's "On The Road Again" was recorded a couple of years ago, but arrives today (14 August) as a reminder of the live music industry that was brought to a halt because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
First Aid Kit say of their cover, "We're excited to release our version of "On The Road Again" by Willie Nelson. We recorded this cover a couple of years ago and recently found it while digging through the archives. The song is a country classic, it feels like we've known it forever. Because of the situation with COVID, sadly, the theme of the song has never felt more relevant than it does today."
They continue, "We made a video for the song using cell phone footage from our tours throughout the years. Going through all those videos made us emotional. It made us realise how much we appreciate being able to roam freely around the world. How much we love the feeling of playing live for people, in the flesh. How much we miss our incredible band and crew. All the proceeds from the streaming of the song will go to Crew Nation. So much of the magic happens behind the stage. It's easily taken for granted, but without our touring and venue crew live music wouldn't be possible. It's important that we help them out right now."
Nurit Smith, Executive Director, Music Forward Foundation said of First Aid Kit's decision to donate proceeds to the organisation, "Crew Nation is extremely grateful to Johanna and Klara for finding a way to support the members of crew who have been forced off the road and out of work. These music crews spend their lives touring with artists, so it’s wonderful to have special tribute to those unseen magical moments with this song and video."
As well as releasing their cover, First Aid Kit have also been announced for Latitude 2021. Visit latitudefestival.com for more information.
