On 16-Apr, the latest episode of Podsongs was released featuring Reverend Peyton’s insightful conversation with the legendary American actor and director LeVar Burton. This moving interview explores Burton’s transformative influence from his iconic roles in *Roots*, *Reading Rainbow*, and *Star Trek: The Next Generation*, as well as his reflections on storytelling and the inspirational impact of figures such as Fred Rogers and Gene Roddenberry. Building on this heartfelt dialogue, Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band is set to release the single “Are You Gonna Rise? (For LeVar)” on 25-Apr.

LeVar Burton, known for his groundbreaking roles and his lifelong dedication to education and empowerment, brought a profound sense of insight to the interview. Reflecting on the experience, LeVar Burton remarked, “Reverend Peyton has crafted a song that leaps right into this, now moment. A folk tune in the tradition of Guthrie and Seeger, “Are You Gonna Rise” is a clarion call to action that feels very much at home both at a protest rally, or in a church revival meeting. I love it… but you don’t have to take my word for it!.”

Lyrics from the heart

The new single captures the spirit of the conversation, with stirring lyrics that invite listeners to rise in the face of life’s challenges:

“If you get that call are you gonna rise?  

If you hear their cries are you gonna rise?  

If the children sing will you harmonise?  

If fate comes in disguise will you recognize?  

It echoes from the skies are you gonna rise?  

All the birds and butterflies, and all the stars in the skies?  

If you hear their song are you gonna rise?”

These lyrics speak to the call for awakening and solidarity, challenging us to listen and respond when inspiration and purpose beckon. They evoke a sense of urgency and collective responsibility to rise up and embrace the transformative power of art and story.

Reverend Peyton, the creative force behind the single, has long been celebrated for his soulful musicianship and authentic storytelling. His band, Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band, blends raw passion with deep lyrical insight, creating music that resonates on both a personal and universal level. Commenting on the project, Reverend Peyton said, “LeVar Burton has been an inspiration to me since childhood. From *Reading Rainbow* to *Star Trek*, he’s always been a voice of wisdom, curiosity, and integrity. After talking with him, I felt compelled to write a song that challenges us all to rise to the moment when we’re called.”

About Podsongs:

Podsongs is a unique podcast format created and hosted by Jack Stafford, a British musician living in Italy. In this innovative series, musicians step into the role of guest host to interview individuals they find inspirational, and then craft a song inspired by the conversation. Launched in November 2020 during the COVID lockdowns, Podsongs has evolved into a collaborative project that brings together music, storytelling, and heartfelt dialogue. Episodes are recorded at Goldmine Records in Vallo della Lucania, Italy.

Song Credits:

Written and played by Reverend Peyton

Useful Links:

LeVar Burton’s website: https://levarburton.com/  

Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band website: https://bigdamnband.com/  

Podsongs: https://podsongs.com/  

Spotify pre-save for “Are You Gonna Rise? (For LeVar)”: https://ffm.to/areyougonnarise  

Promo preview of the song: https://promo.theorchard.com/5hjr2yH3ZP2BASiC2Vun  

Podcast interview: https://youtu.be/wjMP7G4Dxik