If you had a conversation with the Earth, which questions would you ask? How might the Earth answer?
“Questions for Gaia” is released today across all platforms as the full moon ripens and Spring is beginning to spring into life here on the Central Coast of California! This powerful rock song is dedicated to this third rock from the sun that we call home, this planet that is incredibly spinning through space while holding and fostering life.
Some backstory:
Robyn first came up with the chord progression idea while playing around on the upright piano at one of our Speak Studio sessions. Some time later, Billy added some ideas for the music while Robyn played on the piano at the old Last Stage West. Thanks to those pianos and collaboration for the inspiration!
The lyrics and melody started coming to Robyn while driving and listening to the music after Long Dance ceremony, reflecting on our human relationship to Earth and the Gaia Hypothesis*, that the Earth and the organisms living here form consciousness and an integrated whole, planetary being. The last verse came through while sitting under a beloved live oak tree.
*(The Gaia Hypothesis was formulated by James Lovelock in the 1970s, though perhaps the concept may be ages older.)
Artwork by Billy Clayton and Timo Beckwith
“Questions for Gaia”
Lyrics by Robyn Saxer
Music by Robyn Saxer and Billy Clayton
Robyn Saxer (Vocals, Keyboard)
Billy Clayton (Rhythm Guitar)
Anthony Roselli (Drums)
Mike Flactiff (Tambourine)
Chad Hoffman (Bass)
Talia Ortega (Flute)
Jeff Steinmann (Lead Guitar)
Recorded at Avalon Digital Recording Studios, San Luis Obispo, California. Engineered by Kip Stork, Brian Aunger and Billy Clayton. Mixed by Billy Clayton, Mastered by Griffin Breshears
Lyrics:
How can I give away in a balanced way to you,
With the many roles we play in the things we do?
How can I receive in a way that honors health,
When we know your giveaway is life itself?
Embedded in your mystery
The roots of our wild story…
Where can I listen to the message of your vibration,
Now that your body is divided into nations?
Do you hear me when I step outside the door?
Can you feel my footsteps through a concrete floor?
Witnessed in your beauty
The fruits of true reality…
Who are the beings calling your gentle breast their home?
Can we survive your fury through the fingertips we’re shown?
What is your opinion, your feeling for who we are?
Does another life-giving planet exist in distant stars?
Opened is the door, you leave
Clues across your pulsating seas…
Thank you for your support and listening to our music!
Love and gratitude,
Zen Mountain Poets