Every Day is Christmas: A Song for Family, Love, and Longing

“Every Day is Christmas” is a heartfelt ballad that captures the bittersweet joy of the holiday season, especially when loved ones are far away. Through its poignant lyrics and warm melody, the song evokes a sense of nostalgia for past Christmases, while celebrating the enduring gift of family.

The song opens with the anticipation of Christmas Day, adorned with twinkling lights and cherished traditions: “Soon it will be Christmas day / And we’ve hung the lights with care.” These opening lines resonate with the familiar imagery of classic Christmas carols like “Deck the Halls,” instantly transporting listeners to a cozy and festive atmosphere.

However, a sense of longing soon emerges as the lyrics acknowledge the physical distance between the singer and his sons: “And I know we’re here and you’re there / But you’re right here in our hearts.” This sentiment echoes the emotional core of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” a timeless ballad about yearning for family during the holidays.

The father’s voice reminisces about past Christmas Eves spent with his young sons, wrapping gifts late into the night. He reflects on the passage of time, acknowledging that “time is a thief,” yet emphasizing that it can never steal the precious gift of his children. This sentiment beautifully encapsulates the enduring love between a parent and child, a love that transcends time and distance.

The chorus explodes with the powerful message that every day feels like Christmas because of the love and joy his family brings him: “It’s like every day is Christmas / Like every day is Christmas.” This refrain shifts the focus from the holiday itself to the deeper meaning it represents: the celebration of love, connection, and gratitude for the presence of loved ones.

Despite the son’s absence, the father affirms their intention to uphold their Christmas traditions, gathering to share the joy of giving, even if it’s through phone calls. The lyrics beautifully illustrate the adaptability of family rituals, emphasizing that love and connection can transcend physical boundaries. He emphasizes that the most important gift is his family, “the gift that makes it like Christmas everyday.”

The song concludes with a poignant message of love and hope, acknowledging the son’s absence yet celebrating the gift of his existence. The father yearns to hear his son’s laughter through the phone and expresses his longing to be together, “if only in our dreams.” The final repetition of “Soon it will be Christmas day / And we’ve hung the lights with care / And I know we’re here and you’re there / But you’re right here in our hearts,” reinforces the enduring love and connection that binds this family, regardless of physical distance.

The song’s writer, Armando Heredia, shares that the inspiration for “Every Day is Christmas” stemmed from his own son’s inability to come home for Christmas due to financial constraints. This personal experience imbues the song with an authentic depth of emotion, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced the bittersweet longing for absent loved ones during the holidays.

“Every Day is Christmas” is a beautiful testament to the enduring power of family love. It’s a song that will resonate with anyone who cherishes the gift of family, especially during the holiday season. You can find it on Apple Music, Spotify, and many other streaming platforms through the DistrKid link.

#EveryDayIsChristmas #FamilyLove #ChristmasSong #HolidayMusic #LongDistanceFamily #DistrKid #ArmandoHeredia #IfWeWereABand #MerryChristmas

Submit to the Mystery: An Exploration of Love, Hate, Ambition, and Humility

Armando Heredia’s new album, Submit to the Mystery, released under the pseudonym If We Were A Band, is a compelling collection of songs that explore the complexities of the human experience. Published on December 5, 2024, the album is available on most streaming platforms, offering listeners a raw and honest glimpse into the artist’s mind. The songs are rich in allegory and metaphor, inviting us to confront our own understandings of love, hate, ambition, and humility. This article will explore each song individually and as a collection, examining Heredia’s distinct writing style and the emotional impact of the album as a whole.

What Do You Know About It?: Unmasking Superficial Love

“What Do You Know About It?” immediately challenges our conceptions of love. Heredia employs a striking metaphor, comparing those who claim to understand love to “a chemist in an art museum,” so focused on the technicalities that they miss the essence of the art itself. The song’s imagery further emphasizes this point, juxtaposing “incandescent lights and peeling paint” with “broken down refrigerators” and “wood panelin’ in the basement,” creating a sense of decay and neglect that reflects the hollowness of love without action.

The lyrics directly address an individual who boasts about their understanding of love while simultaneously exhibiting hypocritical behavior. Heredia sarcastically praises this person’s “handyman” skills, drawing a parallel between their ability to fix physical objects and their perceived ability to mend matters of the heart. However, the broken-down Ford in the yard and the “busted knuckles” suggest a failure to apply those skills to love itself, resulting in a “engine just won’t turn”. The song ultimately questions the authenticity of this individual’s claims, highlighting the disconnect between words and actions.

Easier Than Love: The Seductive Simplicity of Hate

In contrast to the complexities of love, “Hate Is Easier Than Love” explores the alluring simplicity of hate. Heredia likens hate to a “downhill journey,” requiring minimal effort and flowing along the “path of least resistance”. It’s a “fast game” that ignites instantly, fueled by self-preservation and a disregard for the other.

The song emphasizes the challenges of love, portraying it as “reaching for the highest shelf” and a “long game” demanding patience and empathy. Love requires us to step outside ourselves, to “walk in their shoes” and see the world through another’s eyes. While hate prioritizes self, love compels us to expand our perspective and embrace a more complex and challenging path.

Little King: A Cautionary Tale of Ambition

“Little King” shifts the focus to the perils of unchecked ambition. Heredia utilizes the allegory of a king who seizes power without earning it, exposing the pitfalls of pride and the consequences of hasty decisions. The imagery of a burning castle and mocking subjects paints a vivid picture of the downfall that awaits those who prioritize power over wisdom.

The repeated line, “a fool will always snatch the crown from a man too wise to give it to him,” serves as a chilling reminder that true leadership is earned through merit and humility, not through force. The song ends with a haunting question: “But was it ever really yours?” challenging the listener to consider the true cost of ill-gotten power.

The Stars: Finding Solace in the Cosmos

Heredia turns outward in “The Stars,” inviting us to find solace and perspective in the vastness of the universe. He personifies the stars as a powerful force, a “swaggering army” and a “wild conquering band of brilliance,” emphasizing their untamed beauty and dominance.

This imagery serves as a reminder of our place in the grand scheme of things. The stars, with their ancient wisdom and untamed brilliance, dwarf our human concerns, urging us to embrace humility and awe in the face of something far greater than ourselves.

Heredia’s Writing Style and Emotional Impact

Throughout the album, Heredia’s writing style is characterized by its directness and conversational tone. He uses vivid imagery and relatable metaphors to convey complex emotions and philosophical concepts, making them accessible to a wide audience. The raw and unfiltered nature of the songs, create a sense of intimacy and authenticity.

The album’s emotional impact stems from its honest exploration of universal themes. Whether challenging superficial notions of love, exposing the allure of hate, warning against unchecked ambition, or finding solace in the cosmos, Heredia’s songs resonate deeply with the listener.

Call to Explore the Complexities of Love, Hate, Ambition and Humility

Submit to the Mystery is a testament to the power of raw emotion and unfiltered creativity. Heredia’s songs possess a compelling authenticity that resonates deeply with the listener. They are an invitation to explore the complexities of love, hate, ambition, and humility – universal themes that touch every human heart.

The album is available on Apple Music, Spotify, and most major platforms.

For more information, visit https://armandocreative.com and http://ifwewereaband.com.

#musiclicensing #demos #songwriting #collaboration #love #hate #ambition #humility

Deconstructing “Fragile”: An Analysis of Armando Heredia’s Anthem Against Racism

Armando Heredia’s “Fragile” is more than just a song; it’s a poignant commentary on the resurgence of racist ideologies and the deep-seated fear that fuels them. This analysis will explore the historical context, psychological implications, and the overarching metaphor of fragility, stanza by stanza, to illuminate the emotional and societal impact of xenophobia.

Stanza 1: Unveiling the Modern Face of Racism

“Well, you traded your white robe for that little red hat. And you’re burning cross for that flagstika flying on the back of your pickup truck while you got that mask on your face. Okay, we get it. You’re a little fragile.”

This opening stanza immediately throws the listener into a landscape of modern racism. Gone are the blatant symbols of the Ku Klux Klan like white robes; they’ve been replaced with subtler, yet equally potent, signs like red hats and flagstikas. This imagery points to a shift in the presentation of racist ideologies. While overt displays of hate might be less common, they have morphed into more insidious forms, often hiding behind political affiliations and dog whistles. The mask, a symbol of concealment, further emphasizes this veiled expression of prejudice. The stanza concludes with the powerful assertion: “You’re a little fragile.” This statement introduces the song’s central metaphor, equating racism with fragility. It suggests that these outward displays of hate are a defense mechanism, a reaction to a perceived threat to one’s identity and worldview.

Stanza 2: Tracing the Roots of Bitterness

“A wise man once said, ‘If bitterness has fruits, it’s probably got roots.’ Actually, it was me. I said it. And I might not be too wise, but it’s not too hard to see through you guys. I know you’re a little fragile.”

Here, Heredia digs deeper, exploring the origins of this fragility. By drawing a parallel between bitterness and fruit, he implies that racist attitudes aren’t spontaneous; they stem from a long history of prejudice passed down through generations. He acknowledges his own statement, “If bitterness has fruits, it’s probably got roots,” emphasizing the cyclical nature of hate. While he might not claim to be “wise,” he can still perceive the insecurity motivating these racist behaviors, further solidifying the fragility metaphor.

Stanza 3: Confronting the Legacy of Fear

“Cuz your granddad and his bros were so afraid that they made sure no one else could drink from their fountains. Yeah. They had their safe spaces so they’d never have to share the room with different races. They wanted to be the only ones with rights. And truth be told, wore their hoods to hide and burn their crosses in the middle of the night. You’re a little fragile, my guy.”

This stanza delves into the historical context of racism in America, referencing the segregation era when basic rights were denied based on race. The mention of “granddad and his bros” directly links current racist behaviors to past generations, highlighting the inherited nature of prejudice. The irony of segregationists creating “safe spaces” while simultaneously infringing upon the safety and rights of others is a poignant observation. Their fear, masked by attempts to maintain racial superiority, ultimately reveals their fragility. The image of hooded figures burning crosses reinforces this notion of fear-driven actions and the inherent weakness it represents.

Stanza 4: Exposing the Insecurity Behind Hate

“A little scared of the world around you. I’m sure that’s got to be why you march in a little twinsy group in your matching uniforms, railing against social norms. Okay, KK, we get it. You’re a little fragile. A little fragile. Just a little fragile, my guy. Ooh. Ooh. A little fragile. A little fragile.”

The final stanza brings the song full circle, explicitly stating the fear that underlies these racist displays. The image of marching in “matching uniforms” points to the conformity and lack of individual thought within these hate groups. The repetition of “You’re a little fragile” serves as a final, resounding indictment of the weakness at the heart of racism.

The Emotional and Societal Scars of Xenophobia

Heredia’s lyrics offer a powerful insight into the emotional impact of harboring racist ideologies. The song suggests that racism stems from a place of fear, insecurity, and a need to feel superior. This constant need to assert dominance over others ultimately reveals a deep-seated fragility within the individual.

On a societal level, the rise of xenophobia, as fueled by the rhetoric mentioned in source 1, has devastating consequences. It creates divisions, fosters distrust, and undermines the very fabric of a diverse and inclusive society. Heredia’s “Fragile” is a timely and necessary call to confront the fragility within ourselves and our communities, urging us to dismantle the systems of hate and build a future grounded in empathy and understanding.

#fragility #racism #xenophobia #socialjustice #music #commentary #ArmandoHeredia #IfWeWereABand

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Check out If We Were A Band on Apple Music and Spotify.

Daytime Monsters: A Song for Our Times

Armando Heredia’s song “Daytime Monsters,” performed under his pseudonym If We Were A Band, is a powerful commentary on the state of American politics and the dangers of divisive leadership. The song uses the metaphor of “monsters” to represent those who espouse hatred and bigotry, particularly in the context of the 2024 election.

Unmasking the Monsters

Heredia describes these “monsters” as wearing “red hats, red ties, red teeth, red eyes,” a clear allusion to the imagery and rhetoric often associated with certain political ideologies. He notes that these figures, once hidden in the shadows, now operate openly and brazenly, “grinding their teeth in the daytime”. This suggests a normalization of extremist views and a boldness in expressing them publicly.

The Sycophants: Enablers of Hate

The song goes beyond simply identifying the “monsters,” however. It also explores the role of their followers, the “sycophants” who enable their hateful rhetoric. Heredia describes them as “barking and growling to try and prove themselves,” desperate for the approval of their “daddy”. This imagery paints a picture of individuals who are easily manipulated and driven by a desire for validation, even if it means supporting harmful ideologies.

These sycophants are susceptible to manipulation because they crave acceptance and belonging. They find a sense of purpose and identity in following a strong leader, even one who promotes division and hatred. The song suggests that these individuals are not necessarily inherently bad, but rather lost and vulnerable, seeking guidance and affirmation in the wrong places.

The Role of Racism

Heredia explicitly states that the song was written in response to “the vitriol and hatred expressed by many of the supporters of the incoming administration”. He further notes that “many racist groups and individuals have found refuge in, and are emboldened by, the rhetoric espoused by the campaign”. This suggests that racism plays a significant role in the current political climate and is being used to divide and manipulate the electorate.

The song implies that the “monsters” are exploiting racial anxieties and prejudices to gain power. Their rhetoric resonates with those who feel threatened or marginalized, and they offer simplistic solutions based on fear and scapegoating. This creates a dangerous cycle of division and animosity.

Implications for America

“Daytime Monsters” is a stark warning about the fragility of American democracy. It highlights the dangers of unchecked political ambition, the susceptibility of individuals to manipulation, and the corrosive effects of racism on society. The song’s message is clear: we must be vigilant against those who seek to divide us and hold our leaders accountable for their words and actions.

Daytime Monsters is available on The Ladies at the Station EP on Apple Music and Spotify, as well as other major streaming platforms.

#DaytimeMonsters #PoliticalDivision #Racism #Sycophants #AmericanPolitics

A Symphony of Disillusionment: Deconstructing The Ladies at the Station

Armando Heredia, writing as If We Were A Band, crafts The Ladies at the Station EP as a potent reaction to the political landscape of the 2024 election cycle. This article will examine each song within the EP, exploring the writer’s emotional landscape and the themes presented. This exploration will use provided media (listed at the end of the article), showcasing the incoming administration and their supporters, as context.

The Writer’s Distress: Heredia’s lyrics bleed a potent disillusionment and worry for the future, aligning with sentiments expressed by families interviewed in the MSNBC video, facing the specter of mass deportation. He seems to wrestle with the resurgence of xenophobia and misogyny, feeling overwhelmed by an increasingly antagonistic political climate. This sense of powerlessness is powerfully conveyed in the lyric “I hope you get everything you wanted / And the god you traded, for the God who made you keeps all his promises” from “My Fellow Americans”. This line speaks to a resigned acceptance of a potentially grim future.

“Daytime Monsters”: Hate Unmasked

This song establishes the EP’s core themes by immediately addressing the normalization of hate. The “monsters” – with their “red hats, red ties, red teeth, red eyes” – are a stark representation of bigotry that has brazenly entered the mainstream. The line “They used to hide, only come out at night / Now they grind their teeth in the daytime” suggests a shift from concealed prejudice to open displays of it. This mirrors the vulgar, racist displays at the MSG rally.

The song further indicts the “sycophants,” blind followers of these “monsters”. This echoes the behavior of rally attendees who enthusiastically support the hateful rhetoric. The lyrics “They bark and growl to try and prove themselves / So maybe daddy will notice and say / You’re a good little monster” illustrate a disturbing desire for approval gained through aggression and prejudice.

“The Ladies at the Station”: America’s Forsaken Values

The title track uses striking imagery to illustrate the disintegration of core American ideals. Lady Liberty, deported and left at a train station with other marginalized “ladies,” symbolizes the nation turning its back on its own founding principles. This is reinforced by the line “‘Cause Liberty is a foreign concept, and she’s got that immigrant status,” emphasizing the irony of rejecting immigrants in a nation built by them. Hope, seeking asylum due to her inability “to bear another round,” embodies the fading optimism for a positive future. Charity, running from a “creepy Uncle Sam” who represents dishonesty, embodies the death of compassion within the nation.

The “ladies'” fear and anger arise from the threat to their very existence in a society hostile to their values. This resonates with the MSNBC video, where families, especially mixed-status ones, are terrified by the incoming administration’s pledge of mass deportations. The perversion of the “your body, my choice” slogan by MAGA supporters further contributes to this fear. This normally feminist phrase is twisted into a declaration of control over women, adding another layer to the “ladies'” fear by highlighting a misogynistic undercurrent that threatens their safety and freedom.

“New Plantations”: Exploitation in the Name of Economy

This song tackles the economic incentives fueling anti-immigrant sentiments. It exposes the hypocrisy of those who champion nationalist rhetoric while exploiting undocumented labor. The lyrics “You can rent ‘em for ten cents on the dollar / And hold them indefinitely, in your new plantations” draw a parallel between current labor practices and past oppression. The incoming administration’s vow to enact “the largest mass deportation ever in history” raises serious concerns about a system resembling indentured servitude, with undocumented immigrants as the exploited workforce.

The song throws down a moral challenge, particularly for Christians, who are supposed to champion the vulnerable and advocate for justice. The silence from Christian leaders regarding policies that directly threaten immigrants suggests a disconnect between their stated values and actions. Latino culpability is highlighted in the MSNBC video, which reveals a significant portion of Latino men voted for the incoming administration despite its anti-immigrant platform. This raises complex questions about the motivations behind their vote and its potential impact on their own community.

“Not To Belabor The Point”: Immigrants Reduced to Economic Units

Heredia uses dark humor in this song to critique the dehumanization of immigrants, viewing them solely as economic tools. Lyrics satirize the cold calculations behind policies that exploit a captive, detained immigrant workforce. The line “We don’t care where they’re from as long as they’re not from here, cause / We need labor” emphasizes a cynical pragmatism prioritizing profit over human worth. The repeated “Not to belabor the point, but it still comes down to cheap labor, right?” further underlines the callous disregard for the ethical ramifications of such policies.

The incoming administration’s plans to “reinforce immigration in the interior of the country” via actions like workplace raids suggest this dehumanizing view is more than theoretical. The potential for human rights violations in the pursuit of economic gain is a terrifying implication, underlining the moral crisis at play.

“My Fellow Americans”: A Nation Divided

“My Fellow Americans” serves as a scathing critique of a society that has seemingly traded its core values for political expediency and personal gain. The song highlights a sense of despair over the perceived abandonment of Christian principles, particularly concerning the treatment of immigrants and the vulnerable.

• The lines “I hope you get everything you wanted / And the god you traded, for the God who made you keeps all his promises” express a bitter irony that speaks to the potential consequences of prioritizing political idols over genuine faith. This suggests a spiritual compromise where allegiance is pledged to figures like the incoming administration, rather than to principles of compassion and justice.
• The lyrics “ask not what you’re country can do for you, with its knee on your neck and a boot in your back, but what it plans to do to you” evoke a sense of impending doom, particularly for those already marginalized. This imagery directly contrasts with the ideal of a nation that protects its citizens, especially the most vulnerable.
• The song questions the role of Christians in this societal shift, directly challenging their complicity in the creation of a system that seems to contradict their professed values. The line “So, you can take down those old pictures of Jesus, He wasn’t European, anyway, but that’s just an aside” underscores the hypocrisy of invoking Christian identity while supporting policies that harm those in need.
• The lyrics “But your new god is finally American, yeah, first generation on his mother’s side” further solidifies the idea of a distorted faith where nationalism and political allegiance have become intertwined with religious belief. This notion is reinforced by the actions and rhetoric of individuals like Stephen Miller, who explicitly declare “America is for Americans and Americans only.”
• The reference to the biblical concept of “mammon” – material wealth and greed – further emphasizes the perceived spiritual corruption at play: “you can’t serve God and mammon, or something like that, you church folk would know more about it, great job.” This line directly accuses those claiming Christian faith of prioritizing personal gain over the well-being of others.

The song concludes by reiterating the potential consequences of abandoning core values, particularly for Christians who have seemingly turned a blind eye to the plight of immigrants and the vulnerable: “I hope you get everything you wanted / And the god you traded, for the God who made you keeps all his promises.” This final statement serves as both a warning and a lament for a society that has lost its way.

Conclusion: A Cry for Justice in a Fading Hope

The Ladies at the Station presents a stark image of a nation wrestling with resurgent xenophobia, misogyny, and exploitation. Its overarching theme is a plea for justice and accountability in the face of these wrongs. The EP specifically challenges Christians and Latinos to confront their participation in this system and actively resist the dehumanization of immigrants. The writer’s emotional arc, from despair to anger, mirrors those who fear the consequences of these policies. The songs remind us that silence is complicity, and that the fight for justice demands action from all who believe in a fairer, more compassionate society.

Here is a bibliography of the YouTube videos mentioned in the sources:

• “How Tom Homan and Stephen Miller could shape Trump’s immigration policy”
  • Channel: CBS News
  • https://youtu.be/FjdKoYZiAXQ?si=a44hE67z-YnyvulO
• “Racist, vulgar rhetoric takes center stage at Trump’s MSG rally”
  • Channel: POLITICO
  • https://youtu.be/OrVm_n5-a0c?si=JDrs8Xi-CTaUcUFy
• “Stephen Miller Says, ‘America Is For Americans And Americans Only,’ At Trump’s MSG Rally”
  • Channel: Forbes Breaking News
  • https://youtu.be/uMUq40wzfP4?si=BrwSWdQBW14cscZc
• “‘Scared for my family’: Mass deportations loom after Latinos vote in Trump at 45%”
  • Channel: MSNBC
  • https://youtu.be/a1U8Sd1bTEw?si=Wf5n8-Vl0ItZvX82
• “‘Your body, my choice:’ Women enraged by emboldened MAGA misogynists”
  • Channel: MSNBC
  • https://youtu.be/LBgdaZ0Xxr4?si=5AvCxnprssxt5BM3

A Deep Dive into If We Were A Band’s “The Magnum Opus”: A Collection of Protest Songs for Our Times

Armando Heredia, writing under the pseudonym If We Were A Band, offers a powerful collection of seven protest songs in his album “The Magnum Opus”. Inspired by the tumultuous sociopolitical climate of the 2024 election cycle, Heredia’s music grapples with themes of societal injustice, power dynamics, and the search for hope amidst a sense of impending doom. This blog post will explore each song individually and analyze how they work together as a cohesive and impactful compilation.

Sometimes even lambs roar!

“The Magnum Opus” Track Order Analysis: A Journey of Disillusionment, Resistance, and Hope

The specific track order of “The Magnum Opus” significantly enhances the album’s narrative arc. It guides listeners through a journey of disillusionment with societal structures, a call to action and resistance, and ultimately, a message of enduring hope rooted in shared humanity and spiritual connection.

• Setting the Stage (Tracks 1-4): The album opens with “Unbroken and Unfazed,” a powerful anthem of resilience that immediately establishes the album’s central theme of perseverance despite facing hardship and injustice. This sets the stage for the disillusionment that follows. “Tiny Fists,” placed second, introduces the vulnerability of innocents caught in the crossfire of societal conflicts, further emphasizing the need for change. “Americore,” positioned third, provides a scathing critique of a specific brand of American identity rooted in dominance and exceptionalism, directly challenging the status quo. “The End is Near” follows, culminating this initial arc with a sense of urgency and impending doom if the issues raised in the previous songs remain unaddressed.
• The Turning Point (Track 5): “The Magnum Opus,” strategically placed in the middle of the album, serves as a pivotal turning point. It acknowledges the disillusionment and anger stemming from the realization that societal systems often fail to uphold the values they espouse. However, the song ends with a defiant cry of “We got this!”, marking a shift from disillusionment to a call to action.
• Embracing Hope and Resilience (Tracks 6-7): The album’s final two tracks offer a message of hope and resilience grounded in shared humanity and spiritual values. “What Matters Most” emphasizes the importance of recognizing our common humanity, urging listeners to connect on a deeper level beyond superficial differences. This message of unity and compassion serves as a powerful antidote to the divisive rhetoric and power struggles explored in earlier tracks. Finally, “Broken Doesn’t Mean The End” concludes the album with a powerful affirmation of hope. It acknowledges the pain and brokenness of the world while emphasizing that healing, renewal, and ultimately, a better future are still possible.

This strategic track arrangement creates a powerful emotional arc throughout the album. It guides listeners through a process of recognizing injustice, confronting disillusionment, and ultimately embracing hope and action. By ending on a note of resilience and the potential for positive change, “The Magnum Opus” leaves listeners feeling empowered rather than defeated, encouraging them to actively participate in building a more just and equitable world.

1. Unbroken and Unfazed (Opus Version): This song embodies the album’s message of resilience in the face of adversity. The lyrics depict a journey from peaceful protest to hardened resistance, acknowledging the “casualties of war” and the “cries” that have gone unanswered. Yet, despite the hardships, the song emphasizes the unwavering spirit of those fighting for justice. The image of an “army in the darkness” with “hearts and wills unbroken” conveys a sense of determination and solidarity.

2. Tiny Fists (Opus Version): Heredia shifts focus to the innocence and vulnerability of children in this poignant track. The lyrics highlight the stark contrast between the purity of a child’s heart and the harsh realities of a world marred by conflict and prejudice. “Tiny Fists” serves as a powerful indictment of societal failings, reminding listeners that children bear the brunt of adult choices and that true progress requires prioritizing their well-being.

3. The End Is Near (Opus Version): This track tackles the concept of “the end” from multiple perspectives. Drawing on religious imagery and historical context, it explores the potential for both literal and metaphorical endings: the apocalypse, the destruction of Indigenous cultures, and the self-inflicted demise of humanity through hatred and division. The song also hints at the possibility of “the end” signifying the end of oppressive systems, a hopeful interpretation that aligns with the album’s overarching theme of social justice.

7. Americore (Opus Version): This track serves as a scathing critique of a particular strain of American identity rooted in dominance, exceptionalism, and a distorted understanding of power. The figure of “Americore” represents those who believe in their inherent superiority by virtue of their “Americanism,” leading them to assert themselves on others and seek power through subjugation. Heredia contrasts this perspective with the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., highlighting the true power that lies in principles, vulnerability, and the ability to inspire a movement for liberation.

4. The Magnum Opus: The title track sets the stage for the album’s exploration of disillusionment and resilience. The lyrics express the speaker’s initial belief in the “golden rule,” only to have that faith shattered by hypocrisy and systemic inequalities. The repeated phrase “But who are they anyway?” reflects a growing awareness of the power structures that perpetuate injustice. Despite this disillusionment, the song culminates in a powerful declaration of resilience: “We got this!”. This message of defiant hope sets the tone for the album’s exploration of resistance and perseverance.

6. What Matters Most (Opus Version): This song offers a powerful counterpoint to the individualistic and power-driven worldview critiqued in “Americore”. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanity, urging listeners to look beyond superficial differences and recognize the shared heartbeat that unites us all. “What Matters Most” champions kindness as a defining characteristic of true American identity, contrasting sharply with the dominance-seeking behaviors of “Americore”. The song’s spiritual undertones further emphasize the importance of compassion and empathy, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from recognizing our shared humanity and connecting with a higher purpose.

5. Broken Doesn’t Mean The End (Opus Version): This emotionally charged track grapples with the themes of tragedy, resilience, and the search for hope in the face of brokenness. The lyrics acknowledge the pervasiveness of suffering and the potential for despair but ultimately offer a message of enduring hope. The repeated refrain “broken doesn’t mean the end” serves as a powerful reminder that healing and renewal are possible even amidst profound pain.

The Magnum Opus as a Cohesive Whole: The seven songs in “The Magnum Opus” work together to create a powerful and timely commentary on the state of American society. They explore the complexities of power, identity, and social justice, offering both critique and hope.

While songs like “Americore” and “The End is Near” expose the dark undercurrents of American society, tracks like “What Matters Most” and “Unbroken and Unfazed” provide a counter-narrative of resilience, compassion, and collective action. The album’s cyclical structure, beginning and ending with declarations of hope and resistance, further reinforces the message that even in the face of immense challenges, the fight for a more just and equitable world continues.

#protestmusic #socialjustice #TheMagnumOpus #IfWeWereABand #ArmandoHeredia #Americanidentity #power #resilience #hope #kindness #community #changemakers

A Musician’s Legacy: Exploring the Emotional Depths of “Creedence” by Armando Heredia

“Creedence” tells the fictional story of Able “Gonzo” Gonzales, an aspiring rock musician, and his four children as they navigate the challenges of life in a small West Texas town. The children’s names, Fleetwood Mac, Santana, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Olivia “Meatloaf,” reflect Gonzo’s love for music and set the stage for a narrative filled with nostalgia and a deep exploration of familial bonds. The story is inspired by events from Heredia’s childhood, creating a raw and authentic portrayal of the joys and heartbreaks of growing up.

Characters and Relationships

The story revolves around the Gonzales family and their relationships. Gonzo, a single father working hard to support his family, is a loving and devoted dad who uses humor and understanding to guide his children through difficult times. He struggles to balance his responsibilities as a provider with his passion for music, dreaming of recording his own demos.

Each child possesses distinct personalities and experiences:

• Fleetwood, the responsible eldest son, bears the weight of caring for his siblings in Gonzo’s absence.
• Santana, scarred both physically and emotionally by a fire he accidentally started, grapples with guilt and withdrawal.
• Creedence, the imaginative and sensitive youngest son, escapes reality through his fantasies and conversations with his absent mother.
• Meatloaf, the quiet and observant youngest daughter, demonstrates a deep empathy and connection to her father’s emotions.

The bond between the siblings is tested by accidents, misunderstandings, and the weight of their circumstances. Yet, they learn to support each other, finding solace in their shared experiences and the love of their father.

Overarching Theme: Love and Loss

The overarching emotional theme of “Creedence” is the complex interplay of love and loss. The family’s resilience is tested by the absence of their mother, who left when the children were young. The loss of their neighbor and father figure, Palito Joe, further underscores the fragility of life and the enduring impact of those we love. The children cope with these losses in different ways, highlighting the diverse range of human emotions and responses to grief.

Nostalgia and Setting

The setting of Monahans, Texas, and locations like the Million Barrels, contribute to the nostalgic and evocative atmosphere of the story. The Million Barrels, a massive concrete crater, serves as a playground and a backdrop for significant events in the children’s lives, symbolizing both the freedom and the dangers of childhood. The evocative descriptions of the West Texas landscape, with its stark beauty and unpredictable weather, further enhance the story’s emotional impact.

Personal Note from Armando Heredia

In his own words, Heredia shares his inspiration for writing “Creedence”:

“This is a fictional story that I will be using some of my own experiences in. My wife asked me why I felt the need to write it, and I told her I think I like the idea of using the good and bad in my own past but being able to control the environment and the outcome. Plus, I get to explore some of the feelings that these kids have vicariously, and at the same time maybe understand myself a little better.”

Get Your Copy of “Creedence” Today!

Experience the emotional journey of the Gonzales family in “Creedence” by Armando Heredia. Order your copy directly from the self-publishing site, Lulu.com and immerse yourself in this heartwarming and thought-provoking tale of family, loss, and resilience.

#Creedence #FamilySaga #WestTexas #ComingOfAge #Nostalgia #LuluPublishing #family #love #childhood #trauma

Listen to an in-depth review on the Indie Author’s Echo Podcast (11/5/24 at 6am MST)

Articulate: Reimagining Scripture and Ministry Through an Artist’s Lens

Articulate, by Armando Heredia, offers a compelling exploration of the Bible as an artistic masterpiece, challenging readers to see scripture through an unconventional lens. Heredia argues that artistic expression is deeply embedded in the very fabric of scripture and, furthermore, that this artistic dimension has the potential to revolutionize modern ministry. This blog post will explore Articulate’s core arguments and its practical suggestions for integrating art into the church.

Deciphering the Artist’s Language: Scripture as a Gallery

Heredia contends that the Bible, far from being a dry, historical text, can be approached as a vibrant art gallery curated by God, the ultimate artist. He asserts that scripture utilizes visual cues and symbolism to convey profound spiritual truths, inviting readers to engage with its artistic depth.

Articulate distinguishes between two types of symbols employed in scripture:

• Explicit Symbols: These symbols have clearly defined meanings within the text, like the rainbow symbolizing God’s covenant with Noah.
• Implicit Symbols: These symbols carry implied meanings that are revealed through careful study and understanding of the broader biblical narrative. A powerful example is the construction of the Tabernacle, with its meticulous instructions and materials, foreshadowing Christ’s redemptive work in the New Testament.

Heredia encourages readers to consider the symbolic significance of elements like the materials used in the Tabernacle – gold representing deity, silver signifying redemption, brass symbolizing judgment, and so forth. He argues that recognizing these symbols unlocks a deeper understanding of scripture and a greater appreciation for its artistic complexity.

Prophetic Performances: Bringing Scripture to Life

Articulate also explores how Old Testament prophets, in essence, acted as performance artists, utilizing dramatic gestures, symbolic actions, and captivating narratives to communicate God’s message. Heredia frames the lives of prophets like Moses, Elijah, Hosea, Jonah, and John the Baptist as compelling performances, complete with encounters with the divine, royal intrigue, suspense, and calls for social justice. These prophets embodied God’s message through their actions and words, creating a profound impact on their audiences.

The book culminates by presenting Jesus as the ultimate prophetic performer in the New Testament. Heredia argues that Jesus employed a diverse range of artistic methods, from storytelling and miracles to singing and poetry, to convey his teachings.

The Power of Poetry: From Ancient Psalms to Modern Worship

Heredia emphasizes the importance of poetry throughout scripture, arguing that its significance extends far beyond the Psalms. He defines poetry as “the art of rhythmical composition, written or spoken, for exciting pleasure by beautiful, imaginative, or elevated thoughts”, and he provides guidelines for interpreting poetry by considering factors like the title, author, structure, context, speaker, tone, patterns, symbols, and vocabulary.

Heredia argues that the historical practice of memorizing and reciting biblical poetry aloud amplifies its emotional weight and memorability. This oral tradition, he suggests, enabled listeners to connect with scripture on a visceral level, “hiding the Word in their hearts”.

He also addresses the criticisms often leveled against contemporary worship songs that express personal feelings, comparing them to the raw emotional honesty found in the Psalms. Heredia contends that authenticity and vulnerability are essential components of genuine worship, citing Psalm 51, David’s raw confession of sin and plea for forgiveness, as a powerful example of personal expression in the face of transgression.

Even the Song of Solomon, with its controversial use of physical imagery to express spiritual truths, is defended as a bold testament to the multifaceted nature of love between God and his people. Heredia challenges readers to reconsider the role of personal expression and artistic license in modern worship, encouraging a more inclusive and dynamic approach that embraces the full spectrum of human emotion.

Bridging the Sacred Divide: Art as Ministry in Action

Articulate fervently champions the concept of art as a legitimate and powerful form of ministry. Heredia believes that artistic expression can serve as a bridge between the sacred and the secular, offering a unique avenue for spiritual connection and communication.

He challenges the prevailing notion within many churches that art and ministry are separate domains. Heredia suggests that this artificial divide has resulted in a lack of opportunities for artists to engage their talents within the church, leading to a sense of alienation and untapped potential.

To illustrate this point, he uses the analogy of artists as “square pegs” trying to fit into the “round holes” of traditional ministry structures. He proposes that this disconnect stems, in part, from the Protestant Reformation’s emphasis on avoiding idolatry, which inadvertently led to a suppression of the arts in many Protestant churches.

Drawing inspiration from Peter’s journey from denial to devoted service, Heredia introduces the “Peter’s Fulcrum” principle. He argues that shifting our perspective can reveal the value of seemingly rejected contributions. Just as Peter’s impulsive act of defending Jesus, though initially rebuked, ultimately foreshadowed his lifelong dedication, Heredia believes that embracing artistic expression within the church can unleash a wealth of creative energy and spiritual depth.

Articulate’s Blueprint for Cultivating an Artistic Ministry

Heredia doesn’t simply advocate for integrating art into ministry; he provides practical steps for cultivating a thriving artistic community within the church:

Create a Dedicated Gallery Space
Cultivate an Art Community

Appoint a Curator

Incorporate Art into Sermon Series

Facilitate an Art Community Small Group

Articulate: A Call to Action

Articulate offers a compelling vision for a church that embraces artistic expression as an integral part of its ministry. Heredia challenges ministry leaders, artists, and art enthusiasts alike to reconsider the perceived boundaries between the sacred and the secular, recognizing the inherent artistry of scripture and the transformative potential of art in ministry.

By creating space for artists, fostering collaboration, and incorporating art into the rhythm of church life, Heredia believes that we can unlock new avenues for spiritual connection, deeper engagement with scripture, and a more vibrant and inclusive expression of faith.

#ArtAsMinistry #ArticulateTheWord #ScriptureAsArt #CreativeChurch #ChurchAndTheArts

Time, Dust, and Eternity: A Look at “So Much Time” by Armando Heredia

Armando Heredia’s “So Much Time,” published through his musical project If We Were A Band, is a thought-provoking song that evolved from a short poem titled “Stardust.” This blog post will explore the journey from poem to song, analyze the emotional impact of the lyrics, and examine the profound ideas they present.

The poem, “Stardust,” was inspired by Heredia’s experience creating art from reclaimed materials. The act of sanding these materials, leaving his hands covered in dust, sparked a profound realization:

“We rarely realize that eternity speaks to us
through the very dust on our hands
Sunshine and starlight
reflect off of the residue
of our greatest plans”

This simple yet powerful imagery forms the core message of both the poem and the song.

“So Much Time” expands on the themes introduced in “Stardust,” delving deeper into the concepts of time, effort, and the fleeting nature of existence. The lyrics repeatedly emphasize the amount of time we spend focused on ourselves and our endeavors: “We spend so much time / looking at ourselves / So much effort to laud our own efforts”

This introspection, however, is juxtaposed with the stark reminder that “Nothing is forever”, a truth driven home by the repetition of the phrase throughout the song.

Let’s examine each stanza of “So Much Time” and analyze the feelings and ideas they evoke:

• Stanza 1: The song begins with the lines, “We spend so much time / looking at ourselves / So much effort to laud our own efforts”. The repetition of “so much time” emphasizes how much we focus on ourselves and our accomplishments, perhaps to the detriment of other things. This introspection might evoke a sense of self-awareness, but also a tinge of regret for time wasted on self-absorption.
• Stanza 2: This stanza introduces a contrasting element: “We have all of the tools / we need to make / permanent changes / to temporary things / But Nothing is forever”. These lines highlight the paradox of our existence. We strive for permanence, but we live in a temporary world. This realization can be sobering, reminding us of our limitations and the fleeting nature of our achievements. The repetition of “Nothing is forever,” reinforces this sense of impermanence and can lead to feelings of melancholy or even existential anxiety.
• Stanza 3: Here, the song shifts its focus to a more philosophical perspective: “We rarely realize / that eternity speaks to us / through the very dust on our hands / Sunshine and starlight / reflect off of the residue of our greatest plans”. The “dust on our hands” becomes a powerful symbol of our efforts and experiences. The imagery of “eternity speak[ing] to us” through this dust elevates the mundane to something profound. This stanza invites us to see the connection between our everyday actions and the grand sweep of time. It can evoke a sense of awe and wonder about our place in the universe.
• Stanza 4: This stanza seems to circle back to the themes of time and effort introduced earlier, but with a slightly different emphasis: “We spend so much time / Trading ourselves / So much effort to trade / The thing we can’t get back / For temporary things”. This time, the focus is on how we often waste our precious time chasing after things that don’t truly matter. The “thing we can’t get back” is likely a reference to time itself. This realization can be frustrating and even painful, prompting us to re-evaluate our priorities.
• Stanza 5: The final stanza is short and to the point: “Make your trades / No refunds / What you see / Is what you get”. This could be interpreted as a call to accept responsibility for our choices. It suggests that we can’t undo the past, but we can learn from it and move forward with greater awareness. This final message can be both empowering and sobering, reminding us that we are ultimately accountable for how we spend our time.

“So Much Time” explores complex and often contradictory feelings. It encourages us to confront the reality of our limited time while also finding meaning in the present moment.

The emotional impact of “So Much Time” stems from its potent blend of melancholy and hope. The somber acknowledgment of our mortality is balanced by the awe-inspiring imagery of “eternity speak[ing] to us through the very dust on our hands.” This contrast highlights the beauty and significance of our fleeting moments on earth.

The song also encourages reflection on how we spend our time. We are reminded that we possess “all of the tools we need to make / permanent changes to temporary things.” This line invites listeners to consider their own actions and whether they are focused on truly meaningful endeavors. The lyrics further challenge us by stating, “We spend so much time / Trading ourselves / So much effort to trade / The thing we can’t get back / For temporary things” Here, the song critiques our tendency to sacrifice our precious time and energy for fleeting material possessions or superficial pursuits.

“So Much Time” is a poignant reminder to appreciate the present moment and to strive for something more lasting than temporary gratification. The song inspires introspection and encourages us to re-evaluate our priorities, urging us to invest our time wisely.

You can listen to “So Much Time” by If We Were A Band on the “This Time Is Different” albom on Apple Music and Spotify.

#SoMuchTime #IfWeWereABand #ArmandoHeredia #ThisTimeIsDifferent #Time #Eternity #MeaningfulLiving #Reflection

Reflections on Hustle Culture

This is the Prize: A Reflection on Artistic Legacy and Personal Fulfillment

Armando Heredia’s song “This Is The Prize” is a poignant reflection on the cost of success in the creative industry, drawing inspiration from Johnny Cash’s rendition of Nine Inch Nails’ “Hurt.” Examining the lyrics alongside Heredia’s own notes on the song’s creation reveals a powerful message about the potential pitfalls of relentless ambition and the true value of personal connection.

The Influence of “Hurt”

Heredia explicitly acknowledges the influence of Johnny Cash’s “Hurt” in his writer’s note. He describes being struck by the image of Cash, at the end of his career, singing someone else’s song about pain and sacrifice. This image serves as a starting point for Heredia’s exploration of the reward for a life dedicated to creative pursuits.

The lyrics of “Hurt” itself provide a stark backdrop for Heredia’s reflection. Cash’s raw and vulnerable performance amplifies the song’s themes of regret, isolation, and the fleeting nature of earthly possessions. Lines like “What have I become, my sweetest friend? / Everyone I know goes away in the end,” and “And you could have it all, my empire of dirt,” resonate with Heredia’s own questioning of the value of worldly success.

The Cost of the Grind

Heredia’s lyrics echo the weariness and disillusionment hinted at in “Hurt.” He questions “what’s the prize at the end?” and “what do we get for the grind?”. These questions highlight the potential for burnout and disillusionment inherent in the relentless pursuit of artistic success.

Heredia paints a picture of his own grueling schedule, working tirelessly on his own projects before and after his day job. This “hustle and grind” mentality, while seemingly necessary in a competitive industry, leads him to question whether the ultimate prize is worth the personal cost. He wonders if the end result is simply to “end up like Cash, at the end of the day / Sitting at a banquet table / singing someone else’s song about being hurt and giving it all away?”.

Redefining the Prize

However, “This Is The Prize” is not simply a lament for lost time or a cautionary tale against ambition. Instead, Heredia shifts the focus from external validation to internal fulfillment. He suggests that the true prize lies not in material success or recognition but in genuine human connection and creative expression.

The turning point comes with the repeated phrase “What if?” Heredia challenges the conventional markers of success, suggesting that perhaps “all I needed all along was you, and me, and this song”. This simple statement reframes the narrative, prioritizing love, companionship, and the inherent joy of artistic creation.

Heredia rejects the pursuit of “things that they say are important” choosing instead to find contentment in a life free from the pressure of external validation. He imagines a scenario where he can “sit with” someone he loves, unburdened by the distractions of “what the world is hawking”.

The True Reward

Ultimately, Heredia concludes that “this is the prize at the end”. The repetition of this phrase emphasizes a shift in perspective. The true reward is not the “empire of dirt” but the simple act of creation and connection. The prize is the song itself, the shared experience, and the freedom from the relentless pursuit of more.

By drawing inspiration from Johnny Cash’s interpretation of “Hurt,” Heredia crafts a powerful message about the importance of finding meaning beyond the trappings of success. “This Is The Prize” serves as a reminder that the most valuable rewards are often found in the simple joys of life and the connections we forge with others.

This Is The Prize is the title song of an EP by the same name. It is available on most music platforms including Apple Music and Spotify.