"Love and Unity" by The Burroughs

Colorado groove masters the Burroughs recently released their new Eric Krasno-produced digital 45, “Love and Unity.” The track’s positive message of uniting people through music is sorely needed now in the wake of the explosive events that have ripped the country apart. The mass demonstrations and riots following the murder of George Floyd at the hands of a white Minneapolis police officer were a stark reminder that America is still a greatly divided nation. Floyd’s tragic death sparked a global movement where hundreds of thousands of voices have been raised against rampant police brutality and the bigger underlying issue of systemic racism. The Burroughs’ uplifting song is a welcome breath of fresh air amid all the chaos and racial unrest.

Frontman Johnny Burroughs brings his usual charisma and flair to the lead vocals and gets strong vocal support from his fellow bandmates, especially on the infectious chorus. And the Burroughs’ ace horn section serves up some of its patented brass magic. The high-energy track also boasts an irresistible rhythm guitar riff, phat bass and a blazing funk beat.

“Love and Unity” has the same optimistic tone of Sly & Family Stone’s early counterculture anthems during their pre-There's a Riot Goin’ On days. You can also hear some P-Funk and Ohio Players influence in the mix.

The song has a really cool music video, which was directed by Johnny Burroughs and stars Coloradans Ian Sharkey and Lauren Johnston. Shot in the band’s hometown of Greeley, Colorado, the video is a vibrant celebration of dance and diversity. It has a playful sesame street vibe and is filled with colorful sock puppets and features talented dancers from the Colorado Dance Collective and FoCo Flava.

The B-side of “Love and Unity” is the blistering hard-rock jam “We Got To Stand.” The song’s powerful message of taking a stand against injustice and inequality and speaking out for those who can’t is especially significant in today’s climate. The nine-piece ensemble gets raw and nasty on this ferocious groove, which features some badass organ work and a thunderous beat.

The Burroughs have been bringing their exhilarating brand of “Sweaty Soul Music” to appreciative fans since 2013. The members are Johnny Burroughs (lead vocals); Briana Harris (alto saxophone); Sean Hagemeister (lead guitar); Mary Claxton (drums, vocals), Jeremy Fallis (trombone); Kelsey Shiba (keyboards, vocals); Hayden Farr (baritone saxophone); Brian Claxton (bass); and Alec Bell (lead trumpet).

In light of rising racial tensions and the numerous protests taking place across the country, the Burroughs posted the following message on their Facebook page: “We owe the legacy, creativity, and leadership of black musicians for the existence of the music we love and celebrate. We stand in solidarity against racism and injustice that threatens the safety and freedom of our black friends and neighbors.”

Visit the Burroughs' website to learn more about them.


The official music video for "Love and Unity"



The Burroughs performing "Love and Unity" in the CPR Performance Studio



"We Got To Stand"



"Love and Unity" at Amazon


Related blog entry: Soul/Funk Band The Burroughs Bring Some Classic Old-School Flavor To Digital 45