Every Saturday, we’ll be posting a new illustration by David Lester. The Mecca Normal guitarist is visually documenting people, places and events from his band’s 35-year run, with text by vocalist Jean Smith.
Political songwriting is tricky. Being known as a cultural activist seems to negate the possibility that one might actually also be funny. The sha to the la times four of this song was both lighthearted and spontaneous after talking to Dave about a particular boyfriend (circa 1986) who was going to be voting in a certain way.
To me, this song is an example of why I find the idea of opening an artist residency program dedicated to progressive social change important. Having a few likeminded people around to bounce ideas off is a great asset when creating material that intends to change the world.
“She La La La La” from Mecca Normal (Smarten UP!, 1986) (download):
