Bermudian artist Joy T. Barnum discusses the creation of “Get Tired (Fight – The Mary Prince Song),” a song commissioned for the Mary Prince holiday in Bermuda, followed by a performance of the track.
Inspiration and Creative Process
- The Commission: Joy T. Barnum explains that she was asked to compose a song to honor Mary Prince, an enslaved Bermudian woman whose 1831 memoir was a pivotal document in the abolitionist movement
- Modern Connections: The chorus was inspired by Joy’s personal exhaustion and feelings regarding contemporary social justice issues, specifically the deaths of Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery.
- Historical Research: To write the verses, she collaborated with historians Dr. Clarence Maxwell and Dr. Kristy Warren to gain a deeper, more personal understanding of Mary Prince’s experiences with human trafficking.
- The “Baths” Lyric: Joy highlights a specific line—”the fists, the whips, the baths”—explaining that Mary Prince found the act of bathing her persecutor more psychologically tormenting than physical beatings because it forced a gentle intimacy with someone who caused her pain.
- Musical Collaboration: The song was developed through voice notes and brought to life with composer Angela Sainsbury and musician Brian, aiming for a sound that captures both the personal and broad feelings of exhaustion.
- The Role of Allies: Joy emphasizes the importance of allies who “stand next to the fire” to support those in the struggle, a sentiment she made sure to include in the lyrics.
Song Performance
The official performance of “Get Tired (Fight)” begins at [07:09]. The song is a powerful anthem that blends historical narrative with modern soul and rock influences, featuring lyrics that speak to the resilience required to fight for justice despite overwhelming weariness.
Get Tired (Fight- The Mary Prince Song) Mini Documentary Written and Produced by Joy T Barnum Composed by Joy T Barnum, Angela Sainsbury, Malcolm Brian Swan. Recorded and Mastered by Felix Tod Commissioned by Bermuda Department of Culture under Director Dr. Kim Dismont-Robinson Filmed on Location by Qian Dickinson Photography by Ivan Outerbridge Cover Design by Lyn Winford of Pixie Grotto Special thanks to Dr. Clarence Maxwell and Dr. Kristy Warren for their invaluable insight and grace
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