California-based activist singer-songwriter duo Emma’s Revolution will perform “We Are the Power,” a concert of music for justice and community, on Sunday, November 2, at 5 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the South Fork meetinghouse in Bridgehampton.
The award-winning duo, composed of Pat Humphries and Sandy O, is known for fearless, truth-telling lyrics, rich harmonies and a genre-blending sound that spans folk, jazz, funk and rock. For nearly 25 years, Emma’s Revolution has written and performed music centered on peace, equity and activism.
“In this intense and unprecedented time, when our rights, norms and democracy are on the line,” the duo says, “all of our voices are needed to create the country and the world we want to live in.”
Their songs have been featured on “All Things Considered” and “Democracy Now!,” covered by Holly Near, and sung by activists around the world. Folk legend Pete Seeger praised Humphries, saying, “The powers that be can control the media but it’s hard to stop a good song ... Pat’s songs will be sung well into the 22nd century.”
Emma’s Revolution continues to create music that reflects the moment. Recent works include “You Are Not God,” inspired by Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde’s remarks at the Interfaith Service of Prayer for the Nation following the presidential inauguration, and “We Are the Power,” written in support of federal workers affected by mass job purges. The duo’s newest song, “Libre El Pueblo,” was written for an immigrant rights protest in San Francisco.
The duo is also the subject of a forthcoming documentary, “Keep on Moving Forward,” by filmmaker Tom Weidlinger, which explores their work at the front lines of social justice movements. A concert filmed in celebration of their 20th anniversary, featuring Holly Near and other noted musicians, will be included in the film.
Emma’s Revolution’s most recent albums, “Evolution” and “Rooted,” reflect both their legacy and their continued commitment to activism through song. “Swimming to the Other Side,” their well-loved anthem of connection and resilience, appears on “Evolution.” Tracks like “Our House Is on Fire” and “Our People Gonna Rise” — inspired by the climate crisis and the murder of George Floyd — are part of “Rooted,” a collection written largely during the pandemic. The duo’s music videos have collectively garnered hundreds of thousands of views and have been featured on folk radio charts.
As independent, queer artists, Emma’s Revolution maintains a strong presence in movements and communities fighting for justice, equality, and sustainability. Their tours have taken them to Canada, the United Kingdom, Israel/Palestine, Cuba, Chile and Korea.
In the spirit of Emma Goldman’s famous quote — “If I can’t dance, I don’t want to be part of your revolution” — Emma’s Revolution brings an inspiring mix of truth, harmony and hope to every performance.
Tickets are $25 in advance at emmasrevolution.com/concerts or $30 at the door. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the South Fork meetinghouse is located at 977 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike in Bridgehampton.