🌺John Root Thank you, brother. I'm well and truly frightened. One of three things can happen ~We can actively accelerate our free fall into hell, or actively smooth it over, leaving the poison to permeate and explode at any given moment or we can actively choose to dig out the ugly rot and find lasting solutions. There is no apathy this election. We care enough to save America or we don't. The vote is that critical.
BookBWitched hello from Australia! 🇦🇺 the majority of us are praying the democrats win... Trump is as frightening as a loose cannon! please stay safe!!
cheanator: Certainly PM Trudeau isn’t perfect, nor has he done a great job on anything except the pandemic. You may criticize him, but he’s so far above President Trump in every way, it’s ludicrous to compare them!
So beautify and yet so very sad.....so sad because the words ring with horrific truths....Truths that are polar opposites of the very foundations of our Democracy!!
Thank you for being here for us. Being a teenager in the '60's I remember the huge number of protest songs, where are they now? Nothing was more powerful than hearing CCR sing "Fortunate son", even Tennessee Ernie Ford singing "16 Tons". We need more like you putting out the truth.
T Mc I remember 16 Tons and think of it often: You load 16 tons and what do you get? Another day older and deeper in debt! St. Peter don't you call me cause I can't go, I owe my soul to the company store! As fast as some protections for workers and consumers and, of course, environmental protections were fought for, Reagan was already starting to undo them with deregulation, privatization, union busting, and gutting of social programs and they've been eroding ever since. Song is just as relevant today which is a crying shame!
@@tamarrajames3590 He does, which brought them back to my mind. There were at least 20 songs out there on the radio and at big events, where are all these singers now? Why so few? Don shouldn't be practically alone.
There are some beautiful parodies but what we need are some big names to take the lead in creating the music that leads and heals or new voices, ready to take on the issues using social media, bypassing the enormous business that is music today.
Dave, Trump said that he wants to add the Middle class to the poor... Why would he want to this great nation of ours.to go back to the days of the Robber barons?
I Would stoop to place grapes at thy feet and hand to you the sword of the just, for thou hast uttered mighty words. I do wish for these words to resonate so strongly that the empty head of 45 would crumble.
Wendetta Vaughn Wanner Oh Wendetta! I had a tear in my eye listening to the song and worrying about the next few months up to election and then I read your comment and had a tear in my eye from laughing. Thanks for that, I really needed a chuckle!
You have been missed! [As have your information-packed introductions to various songs.] Incredible musicality as well as lyric facility with this one; the harmony is positively silky. Your juxtaposition of this deadly evaluation with one of my favorite songs evokes shudders. With sad pleasure, I add this to my "Spoofage" playlist.
We need to use the great power of prayer along with faith hope n charity now. We need to unite n not divide. Jesus truly is God no other power 🙏🙏 can overpower God. Merry Christmas.
Don this is greatness! It is all so true. I wish more and more people would listen to you. This is almost an anthem for the times. Sad but so true. 😿😿🇺🇸🇺🇸
I have always loved this song, and what you did with the song is true, but sad. What does it mean to be American? This country is the only country in the world that was started by immigrants for immigrants, and has always been a melting pot of Nationalities, and races. Immigrants are what make this country strong. The mixture of so many cultures bringing their traditions to this nation makes us unique. The greed of many has caused a great divide, and too many know poverty, and are being held down from ever experiencing the American dream. To me being an American has nothing to do with race, religion, or original nationality. The one in the White House cares nothing about what all Americans need, only his base, and his own selfish greed.
With all due respect, I think that is the problem. Your 'story' is the American myth, not the American story. European colonialists found somewhere else to claim as their own. We learned about this as a dark mark on our history (in the 90s), & about the suffering caused, as well as the creation of a great new country - different perspectives for the different people involved. The truth is Native peoples were slaughtered, Africans were captured by other Africans because the 'White man' created a new slave market, while also taking from those African countries. America has always been an idealistic concept, but - so far - this has never been reality. America has never been the same idea for everyone. But it is young, in this democratic form. Change is the only constant. Once you recognise the difference between the ideological and reality, you can continue the (r)evolution. As a white European, currently in the US, I am very aware of the differences in our education systems. I do not mean this critically, but through observations & conversations - with friends, & on social media - I learned more US history, from multiple perspectives, at high school (UK) than my American contemporaries did. Same with world history. (As well as _millennia_ of our own history.) Most countries teach history accurately, not egocentrically. I'm using 'history' broadly to cover social movements, political histories, constantly evolving cultures etc. etc. etc. We _are_ taught to think critically about tough topics. It's not 'unpatriotic' to be critical of the country/ government's history, or in its current form, & demand better. Nowhere else is consistently told they are "best" at everything, but without any proof, context, or even comparisons. I really have come to believe that this idea of being 'BEST' at everything is so firmly implanted in the American psyche, that the idea of demanding 'better' barely exists. Comparatively, when new global health, wealth, education, etc. rankings are released, it makes NEWS elsewhere. Comparisons are made between 'us & [top country]' & focused reports look at how our systems compare to the highest ranked systems: _HOW CAN WE BE BETTER? WHAT SHOULD OUR GOVERNMENT DO? HOW SHOULD _*_OUR_*_ TAXES BE SPENT?_ (Etc.) E.g. Most recent world rankings for *Healthcare:* France = 1st UK = 18th US = 37th *Life expectancy:* France = 4th UK = 22nd _(Difference of 1.4 years in those 18 places)_ US = 34th _(Difference of 2.9 years in those 12 places)_ *Government spending on healthcare per person:* France: $4900 UK: $4200 US: $10,200 _US, obviously, doesn't have a national healthcare system like the UK & France (both have parallel private systems too - WAY cheaper as well)._ The truth about being 'great' is that is should _always_ be an aspiration, not a destination. When you think you are there, you become complacent. Education, decent, informative media, a change in popular culture representations, politicians that truly represent their _people_ - the US is lacking in all of those areas. They're needed for everything you describe. I do think the next stage of your (r)evolution has begun. People realise there is a lot of room for improvement, and a lot of work to be done. Many European countries spent the 20th century fighting these battles; it can be done. But it is never finished: there is nothing 'better' than 'best' - and there is always something 'better' to aim for. I sincerely wish for progress and beneficial change following the election. And a landslide win for Biden. ✌🏼
@@gmun2248 Thank you for taking the time and effort to enlighten me, but I believe I failed to get across what I was trying to say. I am an older man and I live in Oklahoma. My maternal grandmother was a full blood Cherokee. I have studied a lot of early history about this country and the native peoples that inhabited it before anyone landed on the shores of North America. You are correct, the very small and inaccurate history, about this country and that is taught in schools is insufficient and more resemble folk tales. I fully understand and have sympathy and compassion for all of the indeginous peoples that suffered for profit, be they from here, or transported like firewood in the cargo holds of ships from Africa. I realize there was never anything resembling equality, or real liberty in this country for all people. Those who were not white European, or come from a prominent family from the start were already sunk. I remember the racial.injustices of the early 60's and the death of JFK. I also remember very well the assassination of both the reverend Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy. and how the feeling of dispair and hopelessness was so heavy and it felt like hatred and prejudices had forever replaced any goodness, or mercy in this world. I am not a person of color and I will never begin to know the sorrow and pain that is caused by bigots and racist at the level it is in this country now. I often fail to put into words what I am feeling and trying to say. As hopeless and bad as I felt back in the 60's with all of the hatred, violence, and division donald trump has created even more today. trump has told officers not to be gentle about putting suspects in cars and has called for violence against black men at his rallies. The proud boys and other white supremacist groups have been called out and now have a place in society because of donald trump. These types would have been in the background before afraid to gather in public. Also these groups would never have been able to have the fire power they do and be able to make law enforcement step down because the cops aren't armed as well. trump has labeled all immigrants gang members and rapist except whites who have an education that trump thinks will be useful. The trump administration put a disclaimer on the poem on the Statue of Liberty. There was talk by trump of sending back the Statue of Liberty at one time. While I understand this country was never equal to all it was at least more accepting of those in need. Whether they were white, wealthy, or not. Stay safe.
@@jamesferris4573 First, I'm sorry it appeared I was solely commenting to you - as silly as that might sound. I was (obvs) replying to you, but my comments were really meant to be more general discussion. I could have been more clear about that. I definitely didn't intend to sound like I was trying to 'enlighten' you. I think saying 'your' story might have been a better start... You sound so sad. So did your initial comment. There's really not much more to say about that, because it _is_ sad. I hope some optimism and hope returns, and real changes can be made with people staying 'woke'. Honestly, I'm just so frustrated right now. At the world... Impotently watching the slow moving train wreck that is Brexit at home; while watching the rollercoaster equivalent here. On top of everything else. I'm frustrated with your Democrats, who seem to be sleepwalking through their campaign when there is SO much more they could campaign FOR instead of just something to vote AGAINST. Nobody says what they really think - too afraid of a misstep; of being 'too liberal' or 'too conservative'. So basically too afraid to speak passionately about their views. Only Bernie Sanders, seems to KNOW what he actually stands for and has the balls to say it without giving a damn. And the US news media. Argh. No critique. No pressure. No analyses. The comedians have better 'news' right now. They manage to cover so much more too. The UK has had 3 general elections, & a (somewhat ridiculous) European election since Brexit. I've voted by proxy when I've been US, I strongly believe it's a duty. Our campaigns have focused on Brexit as a single issue, without giving focus to much else (for us, elections _are_ about policies, not people; attack ads are illegal; no political TV ads... no obscene spending, & campaigning lasts a few weeks, which is STILL enough time to get sick of it - but not numbed). The result has been that people who support Brexit turn out to vote FOR what they want, & others are not motivated to vote. Their vote can't change that. But no party has a 'post-Brexit manifesto', considering what EU laws will be changed/ adopted; what protections will be maintained; how trade & economic regulations will change. In 4 years, NOBODY has talked about what the country will look like after Brexit, except bickering & criticizing the processes. The media hasn't either. It's a mirror. It _terrifies_ me that I'm watching the same scenario play out here - when there IS so much they could campaign FOR. (I'd support mandatory voting, like Australia & Switzerland, but right now - give people reasonS to show up.) I learned about the Civil Rights Movement at school. I've learned a lot more of the social/ cultural/ personal side of it this year, not just the 'pivotal moments' they teach. I'm still learning; but, like you, I know I can't understand HOW it feels to be treated differently purely because of the colour of my skin. It's unimaginable, tbh. I wish it was for everyone. I also can't understand how it feels to believe you have authority & superiority over another person. I don't understand how or why people have this idea - it's taught, I know; I don't understand why humans think/ thought that way in the first place. My parents talk about seeing the news in the 60s and struggling to believe that was happening "in their lifetimes"; when I was at school it was the riots in LA ... and here we are. Still. But that was all from a distance. I can't imagine how it feels to have lived through it THEN, and have the déjà vu you have. The far right groups, the rallies, the powergrabs... the parallels to 1930s Germany are genuinely terrifying. Wikipedia's article on that era is actually really good - I learned loads I didn't already know about the early 30s, & it _is_ worrisome. It also frustrates & concerns me that SO many 'younger' Americans seem uninformed on the politics of WWII... of the differences between the Nazis & communism. I have read too many comments on Twitter about the Nazis being 'commies' because 'National Socialist'. A journalist posted images from a Proud Boys 'protest'(?) recently & their BS paraphernalia included a 'test your mental gymnastics' leaflet titled: _'How to tell if your child is a far right extremist'_ They were 'protesting' ANTIFA (apparently). The list included the most bizarre 'warning signs', including 'an interest in reading...' followed by 'rejection of post-modern philosophy'. And they 'proudly' claim to 'return the housewife' but the list stated 'an interest in marriage'. My brain cannot sustain the level of cognitive dissonance involved: far right groups protesting anti-far right groups (who were not there), warning about people being far-right. With no irony. It would be funny if it wasn't so dangerous, and actually happening. In the UK, they would be declared a hate group. I share your sadness, and fear for future generations - for my generation & everyone's future too, really. Globally, as well as in the US. I hope Americans can make impactful change well before they're in their 70s. I do believe they have already begun. I sincerely hope things are turned rightside up from next month, and the evolution of this country accelerates in positive ways. Be safe.✌🏽
Thank you once again for your Beauty Don. I am sobbing right now. The other half of my brain wants to go running screaming pulling out hair down the street! Good thing I'm outta shape for that one. I just learned that my son in law has been redeployed {for up to a year?} somewhere in the Middle East, is all the DOD is saying. Today, I learned that my daughter, his wife, has tested positive for Covid 19!!! She is a Funeral Director/Mortician so perhaps I saw this coming. Now my grandsons are 'quarantined' and without their dad for god knows how long so, yeah, ooh rah.
Question: *Are the 3 👎 for * (a) not liking that our nation is having to experience this chaos and sad and grieving for our collective loss or (B) not liking that this administration is being CALLED TO TASK for instigating, perpetuating, and profiting off the chaos?
Fabulous parody, if a sad commentary on what we have become as a nation. We need to be rid of these awful people ASAP or we are toast! Keep the great songs coming!
My goodness, I wasn't expecting that at all. By the end of this no-holds-barred song I found myself wiping away tears. So much of what you wrote is the absolute truth, Don, it nearly broke my heart, To think of our country on the verge of an inevitable day of reckoning, I can't help but wonder what will be left here in the United States, after we’ve imploded and the dust settles. I pray we are strong enough to weather the storm. Thank you for lyrics that are truly mind-opening. You are amazing in your own individual way of smacking us in the face with a dead mackerel.
As a German, I'm almost shocked about what's going on in the USA. With us there would have been a vote of no confidence against Ms. Merkel (Chancellor) in the event of such an obvious and above all public failure and in the end she would have gone ... Thank goodness we have a real leader and not a clown as boss. I wish you every success and luck in overcoming your problems. You will need it. Tuesday the 3rd of Nov is your day Go vote!
Congratulations on bringing to light the sad state of fallen America.😞 You guys are fabulous 🎶singing entrepreneurs; harmony is soothing, perfect, & peaceful ambience! Well done on a beautiful song!❤
😢😢😢😢😢 By the time you sang, “A bodyguard of lies he weaves deception to protract,” I was weeping. By the last stanza, I just wanted to crawl into a fetal position. ?Thank you (?) for expressing my current truth. 😢😢😢 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🙏🏽
Right now a high-priority American problem is selection of a new captain and senior officers for the ship of state. Our collective solution will have significant effects on our future, with better results achievable if we more clearly see the realities requiring well-considered actions.
A song with truthful lyrics which shows the faults that are widespread now. We must recover our founder's goals and return to those . As always, a thought provoking song !! Thank you !!
So while I know this is meant to help educate people this is one of the few songs I dont like seeing parodied, I dont really know why, i guess no specific reason, I do enjoy your guys work none the less
this one made me cry because it is so scary. I'm not ready to die yet but within probably 10 or so years. We are walking the edge of oblivion brought on by an insane , hopelessly corrupt, self made monster who can barely spell his own name. What hath God wrought?
Beautifully done and beautiful harmony..... appropriate, but sad and disheartening. Thank you for a very realistic look at our current political situation through the eyes of music.
Keep up the great work! Even though you are not (yet) on Spotify (please fix that!) I listen to your songs every day. They bring everything to the point. And please make a "Always look on the bright side of life" parody and post it after the election!
Words do not convey how poignant this piece is. It may be considered a parody, but it's an absolute gem with nothing but truth. The only chance we have for change is if we all do something. Get out and vote. Don, you've outdone yourself with this. It should be played on every street corner for all to hear for the next 2 months. Thanks for all you do.
Parody Project sings the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. With every video they teach me social studies that I never had in school. I am old, but proud that I am still learning.
Here's how I rewrote one verse a while back: "Oh dutiful - of specious lies - of hampered lives in pain Of pimpled clown man's fantasies - who loves to be insane Hummerica, Hummerica - clods set that racist free And drowned what could - out native good Crumbs left for you and me.
Beautiful and so sad too. See and hear this song ( more than twice ) brought tears in my eyes, also makes me think about the country i'm living in; The Netherlands .. the same shit happens over here. "We are about to see" ..indeed ..it happens all over the world, if you want to see it. Greetings from Amsterdam.
I hate to have to say this because it's ridiculous, but I have to hide some of the most wonderful Parody videos from other people, people I thought I knew well. So PLEASE keep up your magnificent work ... it is life-saving for SO MANY of us ... now if we can remember how to "let freedom ring," we just might make salvage the country we love so much.
Thank you for this moving description of the USA in 2020 - we may not like it but the only way out is facing this truth, then walking toward and through it
Don, I salute you as a true American. A velvet voiced, multi-talented American who's kind enough to share his awesome songs with us. Thanks again!
I guess I just now realized this is just one.
Guy singing. 🤪🤪🤪🤪
@@Nan-59 That makes 2 of us. I didn't realize it until you pointed it out. 😊
Wow mind blown.
As a Canadian I am brought to tears by how sad this really is. God help us all.
🌺John Root
Thank you, brother. I'm well and truly frightened. One of three things can happen ~We can actively accelerate our free fall into hell, or actively smooth it over, leaving the poison to permeate and explode at any given moment or we can actively choose to dig out the ugly rot and find lasting solutions. There is no apathy this election. We care enough to save America or we don't. The vote is that critical.
BookBWitched hello from Australia! 🇦🇺 the majority of us are praying the democrats win... Trump is as frightening as a loose cannon! please stay safe!!
@@evaadams8298 We hope to get the biggest Fanny out of office if we can, I hope to get pissed with all of our allies across the world.
cheanator: Certainly PM Trudeau isn’t perfect, nor has he done a great job on anything except the pandemic. You may criticize him, but he’s so far above President Trump in every way, it’s ludicrous to compare them!
@@sandrastreifel6452 That's for sure.
So beautify and yet so very sad.....so sad because the words ring with horrific truths....Truths that are polar opposites of the very foundations of our Democracy!!
Agreed... we need to bring back those Foundation TRUTHS !!
Linda Bjorkstedt Yes Truths only. No alternative facts please!
thank you for stating my thoughts exactly , I would only be redundant if i were to say more.
@@cherylalt101 You know it!!
We are a REPUBLIC, if we can keep it: not a democracy.
Sad, very sad - because it's true. What's happening to us?
Thanks Don, I hope people wake up, before it's too late. VOTE!
"We are about to see" indeed. God bless the demonstrators, protesters, uprisers - and Parody Project
AGREE!!
Because
⬛️⬛️BLACK LIVES MATTER
BLACK LIVES MATTER ⬛️⬛️
AMEN to that!
Very powerful...tears flowing...
Thank you for being here for us. Being a teenager in the '60's I remember the huge number of protest songs, where are they now? Nothing was more powerful than hearing CCR sing "Fortunate son", even Tennessee Ernie Ford singing "16 Tons". We need more like you putting out the truth.
T Mc I remember 16 Tons and think of it often: You load 16 tons and what do you get? Another day older and deeper in debt! St. Peter don't you call me cause I can't go, I owe my soul to the company store! As fast as some protections for workers and consumers and, of course, environmental protections were fought for, Reagan was already starting to undo them with deregulation, privatization, union busting, and gutting of social programs and they've been eroding ever since. Song is just as relevant today which is a crying shame!
T Mc I was a protest singer back then, when we thought it couldn’t get worse. Don has always reminded me of those. Days..🖤🇨🇦
@@tamarrajames3590 He does, which brought them back to my mind. There were at least 20 songs out there on the radio and at big events, where are all these singers now? Why so few? Don shouldn't be practically alone.
@@cherylalt101 Yes it is. I can't believe there are people who think a corporate, racists repub with Alzheimer's was one of our best presidents.
There are some beautiful parodies but what we need are some big names to take the lead in creating the music that leads and heals or new voices, ready to take on the issues using social media, bypassing the enormous business that is music today.
Usually you make me laugh (although ruefully), but this song made me weep. You are an absolute master parodist Don. Thank you.
Frigging brilliant. Already the largest income gap in the world between the rich and poor and only getting wider.
Dave, Trump said that he wants to add the Middle class to the poor...
Why would he want to this great nation of ours.to go back to the days of the Robber barons?
Cool as cool can be - Rock on
Your most beautiful voice(s) yet! Love you, Don :-*
I Would stoop to place grapes at thy feet and hand to you the sword of the just, for thou hast uttered mighty words. I do wish for these words to resonate so strongly that the empty head of 45 would crumble.
Wendetta Vaughn Wanner Oh Wendetta! I had a tear in my eye listening to the song and worrying about the next few months up to election and then I read your comment and had a tear in my eye from laughing. Thanks for that, I really needed a chuckle!
Wendetta Vaughn Wanner a splendidly worded accolade of hope, spoken for a masterful paody singer. May Olympus hear and magnify your prayer.🖤🇨🇦
I do believe that many, MANY people wish for this same thing, but are afraid to acknowledge it publicly.
Bravissimo!
Once again you you have spoken or sung the truth I always look forwards to your videos
Another somber song. Its sad what we gave become... But on a high note, it seems the people are the only ones whom can make it better.
The citizens can do it better than the higherups who sit in office.
Your videos are very calming in a time of CHAOS.....thank you!!!
Also, I find that Don Caron's songs are educational, even for old people like me.
Well, if history is any indication, we're living in the "decline and fall" of the American empire.
And worst of all,..
WE ARE FOOTING THE BILL FOR EVERYTHING.
That can not continue forever... And Won't.
As always, well done!
🥰👍💕💕👏👏👏✌
You have been missed! [As have your information-packed introductions to various songs.] Incredible musicality as well as lyric facility with this one; the harmony is positively silky. Your juxtaposition of this deadly evaluation with one of my favorite songs evokes shudders. With sad pleasure, I add this to my "Spoofage" playlist.
OMG, the truth hurts to the core...again thank you for truth.
I'm getting a message that "this can't be played in the background." Whatever that means.
Thanks, UA-cam!
Try again! It's worth it!
Works fine if a new browser tab is in use...
You must have accidentally hit something, I get that sometimes. Just ignore it. The post should play anyway.
Bravo! Another ruddy masterpiece, Don! This may just be your best yet.
Blessings Prayers and Love to you!
Excellent. All true. Thank you
We need more HOPE than this!
Donna W then you’d better make some, it won’t knock on your door
We need to use the great power of prayer along with faith hope n charity now. We need to unite n not divide. Jesus truly is God no other power 🙏🙏 can overpower God. Merry Christmas.
So true. Both parties bailed out corporations and let the average American (who ACTUALLY pay taxes) suffer. Plague on both their houses.
Loved your songs. Thanks.
As usual you all nailed it perfectly and again your harmonies are beautiful. Thank you.
🇦🇺🇦🇺👏👏👏👏👏😃😃
Sharp and poignant!! Great work!
Thank you. Perfect. Keep it up.
Don, another masterpiece! Thank you! So relavent!
Cool thanks you all keep it up God Bless one and all be safe wear mask in public for America.
Don this is greatness! It is all so true. I wish more and more people would listen to you. This is almost an anthem for the times. Sad but so true. 😿😿🇺🇸🇺🇸
I have always loved this song, and what you did with the song is true, but sad. What does it mean to be American? This country is the only country in the world that was started by immigrants for immigrants, and has always been a melting pot of Nationalities, and races. Immigrants are what make this country strong. The mixture of so many cultures bringing their traditions to this nation makes us unique. The greed of many has caused a great divide, and too many know poverty, and are being held down from ever experiencing the American dream. To me being an American has nothing to do with race, religion, or original nationality. The one in the White House cares nothing about what all Americans need, only his base, and his own selfish greed.
With all due respect, I think that is the problem. Your 'story' is the American myth, not the American story.
European colonialists found somewhere else to claim as their own. We learned about this as a dark mark on our history (in the 90s), & about the suffering caused, as well as the creation of a great new country - different perspectives for the different people involved.
The truth is Native peoples were slaughtered, Africans were captured by other Africans because the 'White man' created a new slave market, while also taking from those African countries.
America has always been an idealistic concept, but - so far - this has never been reality. America has never been the same idea for everyone.
But it is young, in this democratic form. Change is the only constant. Once you recognise the difference between the ideological and reality, you can continue the (r)evolution.
As a white European, currently in the US, I am very aware of the differences in our education systems. I do not mean this critically, but through observations & conversations - with friends, & on social media - I learned more US history, from multiple perspectives, at high school (UK) than my American contemporaries did. Same with world history.
(As well as _millennia_ of our own history.)
Most countries teach history accurately, not egocentrically. I'm using 'history' broadly to cover social movements, political histories, constantly evolving cultures etc. etc. etc.
We _are_ taught to think critically about tough topics. It's not 'unpatriotic' to be critical of the country/ government's history, or in its current form, & demand better.
Nowhere else is consistently told they are "best" at everything, but without any proof, context, or even comparisons. I really have come to believe that this idea of being 'BEST' at everything is so firmly implanted in the American psyche, that the idea of demanding 'better' barely exists.
Comparatively, when new global health, wealth, education, etc. rankings are released, it makes NEWS elsewhere. Comparisons are made between 'us & [top country]' & focused reports look at how our systems compare to the highest ranked systems:
_HOW CAN WE BE BETTER? WHAT SHOULD OUR GOVERNMENT DO? HOW SHOULD _*_OUR_*_ TAXES BE SPENT?_ (Etc.)
E.g.
Most recent world rankings for *Healthcare:*
France = 1st
UK = 18th
US = 37th
*Life expectancy:*
France = 4th
UK = 22nd
_(Difference of 1.4 years in those 18 places)_
US = 34th
_(Difference of 2.9 years in those 12 places)_
*Government spending on healthcare per person:*
France: $4900
UK: $4200
US: $10,200
_US, obviously, doesn't have a national healthcare system like the UK & France (both have parallel private systems too - WAY cheaper as well)._
The truth about being 'great' is that is should _always_ be an aspiration, not a destination.
When you think you are there, you become complacent.
Education, decent, informative media, a change in popular culture representations, politicians that truly represent their _people_ - the US is lacking in all of those areas. They're needed for everything you describe.
I do think the next stage of your (r)evolution has begun. People realise there is a lot of room for improvement, and a lot of work to be done.
Many European countries spent the 20th century fighting these battles; it can be done. But it is never finished: there is nothing 'better' than 'best' - and there is always something 'better' to aim for.
I sincerely wish for progress and beneficial change following the election.
And a landslide win for Biden. ✌🏼
@@gmun2248 Thank you for taking the time and effort to enlighten me, but I believe I failed to get across what I was trying to say. I am an older man and I live in Oklahoma. My maternal grandmother was a full blood Cherokee. I have studied a lot of early history about this country and the native peoples that inhabited it before anyone landed on the shores of North America. You are correct, the very small and inaccurate history, about this country and that is taught in schools is insufficient and more resemble folk tales. I fully understand and have sympathy and compassion for all of the indeginous peoples that suffered for profit, be they from here, or transported like firewood in the cargo holds of ships from Africa.
I realize there was never anything resembling equality, or real liberty in this country for all people. Those who were not white European, or come from a prominent family from the start were already sunk. I remember the racial.injustices of the early 60's and the death of JFK. I also remember very well the assassination of both the reverend Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy. and how the feeling of dispair and hopelessness was so heavy and it felt like hatred and prejudices had forever replaced any goodness, or mercy in this world. I am not a person of color and I will never begin to know the sorrow and pain that is caused by bigots and racist at the level it is in this country now. I often fail to put into words what I am feeling and trying to say. As hopeless and bad as I felt back in the 60's with all of the hatred, violence, and division donald trump has created even more today. trump has told officers not to be gentle about putting suspects in cars and has called for violence against black men at his rallies. The proud boys and other white supremacist groups have been called out and now have a place in society because of donald trump. These types would have been in the background before afraid to gather in public. Also these groups would never have been able to have the fire power they do and be able to make law enforcement step down because the cops aren't armed as well. trump has labeled all immigrants gang members and rapist except whites who have an education that trump thinks will be useful.
The trump administration put a disclaimer on the poem on the Statue of Liberty. There was talk by trump of sending back the Statue of Liberty at one time. While I understand this country was never equal to all it was at least more accepting of those in need. Whether they were white, wealthy, or not. Stay safe.
@@jamesferris4573
First, I'm sorry it appeared I was solely commenting to you - as silly as that might sound. I was (obvs) replying to you, but my comments were really meant to be more general discussion. I could have been more clear about that. I definitely didn't intend to sound like I was trying to 'enlighten' you.
I think saying 'your' story might have been a better start...
You sound so sad. So did your initial comment. There's really not much more to say about that, because it _is_ sad. I hope some optimism and hope returns, and real changes can be made with people staying 'woke'.
Honestly, I'm just so frustrated right now. At the world... Impotently watching the slow moving train wreck that is Brexit at home; while watching the rollercoaster equivalent here. On top of everything else.
I'm frustrated with your Democrats, who seem to be sleepwalking through their campaign when there is SO much more they could campaign FOR instead of just something to vote AGAINST.
Nobody says what they really think - too afraid of a misstep; of being 'too liberal' or 'too conservative'. So basically too afraid to speak passionately about their views. Only Bernie Sanders, seems to KNOW what he actually stands for and has the balls to say it without giving a damn.
And the US news media. Argh. No critique. No pressure. No analyses. The comedians have better 'news' right now. They manage to cover so much more too.
The UK has had 3 general elections, & a (somewhat ridiculous) European election since Brexit. I've voted by proxy when I've been US, I strongly believe it's a duty.
Our campaigns have focused on Brexit as a single issue, without giving focus to much else (for us, elections _are_ about policies, not people; attack ads are illegal; no political TV ads... no obscene spending, & campaigning lasts a few weeks, which is STILL enough time to get sick of it - but not numbed).
The result has been that people who support Brexit turn out to vote FOR what they want, & others are not motivated to vote. Their vote can't change that. But no party has a 'post-Brexit manifesto', considering what EU laws will be changed/ adopted; what protections will be maintained; how trade & economic regulations will change.
In 4 years, NOBODY has talked about what the country will look like after Brexit, except bickering & criticizing the processes. The media hasn't either.
It's a mirror.
It _terrifies_ me that I'm watching the same scenario play out here - when there IS so much they could campaign FOR.
(I'd support mandatory voting, like Australia & Switzerland, but right now - give people reasonS to show up.)
I learned about the Civil Rights Movement at school.
I've learned a lot more of the social/ cultural/ personal side of it this year, not just the 'pivotal moments' they teach. I'm still learning; but, like you, I know I can't understand HOW it feels to be treated differently purely because of the colour of my skin. It's unimaginable, tbh. I wish it was for everyone.
I also can't understand how it feels to believe you have authority & superiority over another person. I don't understand how or why people have this idea - it's taught, I know; I don't understand why humans think/ thought that way in the first place.
My parents talk about seeing the news in the 60s and struggling to believe that was happening "in their lifetimes"; when I was at school it was the riots in LA ... and here we are. Still.
But that was all from a distance. I can't imagine how it feels to have lived through it THEN, and have the déjà vu you have.
The far right groups, the rallies, the powergrabs... the parallels to 1930s Germany are genuinely terrifying. Wikipedia's article on that era is actually really good - I learned loads I didn't already know about the early 30s, & it _is_ worrisome.
It also frustrates & concerns me that SO many 'younger' Americans seem uninformed on the politics of WWII... of the differences between the Nazis & communism. I have read too many comments on Twitter about the Nazis being 'commies' because 'National Socialist'.
A journalist posted images from a Proud Boys 'protest'(?) recently & their BS paraphernalia included a 'test your mental gymnastics' leaflet titled:
_'How to tell if your child is a far right extremist'_
They were 'protesting' ANTIFA (apparently). The list included the most bizarre 'warning signs', including 'an interest in reading...' followed by 'rejection of post-modern philosophy'. And they 'proudly' claim to 'return the housewife' but the list stated 'an interest in marriage'.
My brain cannot sustain the level of cognitive dissonance involved: far right groups protesting anti-far right groups (who were not there), warning about people being far-right. With no irony.
It would be funny if it wasn't so dangerous, and actually happening. In the UK, they would be declared a hate group.
I share your sadness, and fear for future generations - for my generation & everyone's future too, really. Globally, as well as in the US.
I hope Americans can make impactful change well before they're in their 70s. I do believe they have already begun.
I sincerely hope things are turned rightside up from next month, and the evolution of this country accelerates in positive ways.
Be safe.✌🏽
Thank you once again for your Beauty Don. I am sobbing right now.
The other half of my brain wants to go running screaming pulling out hair down the street!
Good thing I'm outta shape for that one.
I just learned that my son in law has been redeployed {for up to a year?} somewhere in the Middle East, is all the DOD is saying.
Today, I learned that my daughter, his wife, has tested positive for Covid 19!!! She is a Funeral Director/Mortician so perhaps I saw this coming.
Now my grandsons are 'quarantined' and without their dad for god knows how long so, yeah, ooh rah.
Wow! Just amazing.
Question: *Are the 3 👎 for *
(a) not liking that our nation is having to experience this chaos and sad and grieving for our collective loss
or
(B) not liking that this administration is being CALLED TO TASK for instigating, perpetuating, and profiting off the chaos?
the trolls are coming out from under their bridge. Seeing them everywhere. It'll get worse but....we can send them back!
Nice job, Guys. Thank you.
Fyi, Bruce..it's ONE guy! It took me 3 videos to catch one and that made them even MORE awesome! My interpretation is that WE all have many voices!
I weep for you America,
May the good Lord brings healing to the land of America
Fabulous parody, if a sad commentary on what we have become as a nation. We need to be rid of these awful people ASAP or we are toast! Keep the great songs coming!
Wow, It made me take a deep breath and swallow hard. A song that caused pain in My American heart.
My goodness, I wasn't expecting that at all. By the end of this no-holds-barred song I found myself wiping away tears. So much of what you wrote is the absolute truth, Don, it nearly broke my heart, To think of our country on the verge of an inevitable day of reckoning, I can't help but wonder what will be left here in the United States, after we’ve imploded and the dust settles. I pray we are strong enough to weather the storm.
Thank you for lyrics that are truly mind-opening. You are amazing in your own individual way of smacking us in the face with a dead mackerel.
The thumbs down........WHO are they.............on point as always thank you
Whoever writes your lyrics is BRILLIANT, creative and so sadly funny❤️
Another great Don!
I know I don’t want to be on your bad side. (Maybe I do, couldn’t imagine your choice). Cheers 🍻 man!
You guys song great together. I really appreciate the time you have spent putting these great videos.
Absolutely beautiful great harmonies great lyrics PLEASE keep them coming
As a German, I'm almost shocked about what's going on in the USA.
With us there would have been a vote of no confidence against Ms. Merkel (Chancellor) in the event of such an obvious and above all public failure and in the end she would have gone ...
Thank goodness we have a real leader and not a clown as boss.
I wish you every success and luck in overcoming your problems.
You will need it.
Tuesday the 3rd of Nov is your day
Go vote!
Thanks!
Thank YOU!
Absolutely beautiful!!!! Well done.
Congratulations on bringing to light the sad state of fallen America.😞 You guys are fabulous 🎶singing entrepreneurs; harmony is soothing, perfect, & peaceful ambience! Well done on a beautiful song!❤
CANADA thank you for All your support Your FAMILY xx God Bless.
So true, sadly. I’m slowly catching up with my email. Love all your videos.
Genius again! So sad yet reflects despair of so many many Americans. Again, thank you guys
Wow! Very powerful and oh so relevant! Thank you Don.
No words …
except, Beautiful & Heartbreaking!
I salute you guys ! I love it. Well done. 🙏
🇺🇸💙
😢😢😢😢😢
By the time you sang, “A bodyguard of lies he weaves deception to protract,” I was weeping.
By the last stanza, I just wanted to crawl into a fetal position.
?Thank you (?) for expressing my current truth.
😢😢😢
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🙏🏽
Right now a high-priority American problem is selection of a new captain and senior officers for the ship of state. Our collective solution will have significant effects on our future, with better results achievable if we more clearly see the realities requiring well-considered actions.
Amazing! You have a spectacular voice!! :)
So sad n beautiful at the same time. Wishing Americans the best. From Canada!❤
I am a Green Party person/voter. I love these socially conscious videos here. Thank you!!
Beautiful Harmony! It made the truth of the words sting a bit less. I love when the Caron "Clone Brothers" sing together. An amazing quintet.
A song with truthful lyrics which shows the faults that are widespread now. We must recover our founder's goals and return to those . As always, a thought provoking song !! Thank you !!
So while I know this is meant to help educate people this is one of the few songs I dont like seeing parodied, I dont really know why, i guess no specific reason, I do enjoy your guys work none the less
Bravo! Well done.
Great harmony.
I agree -- beautiful and sad, sweetly sung. America, America ..............................................
So sad, bring back, Magna Carta 🤔🤨😁☝️🤷♀️🙋♀️✌👸🤴
Just curious to see how many people who read your comment know and understand what the Magna Carta was! Great comment!
It worked for King John, it could work for King Don.
As an Indonesian who deeply loves the USA, this new version moves me to tears.
this one made me cry because it is so scary. I'm not ready to die yet but within probably 10 or so years. We are walking the edge of oblivion brought on by an insane , hopelessly corrupt, self made monster who can barely spell his own name. What hath God wrought?
The respect will return when the lump is out of the oval office. Hope this song goes viral Great words and singers !
Again ...... profound!
Inspirational! Better than the original words (and I love your four part harmony). Thank you again, Don!
Cutting to the core! Brilliant as usual.
Beautifully done and beautiful harmony..... appropriate, but sad and disheartening. Thank you for a very realistic look at our current political situation through the eyes of music.
You guys or fantastic. I love every one of your productions and this one is top notch. So thank you
Awesome!! I Love you Guys!!
... ingenuity unlimited... well done, thanks...
Keep up the great work! Even though you are not (yet) on Spotify (please fix that!) I listen to your songs every day. They bring everything to the point. And please make a "Always look on the bright side of life" parody and post it after the election!
Words do not convey how poignant this piece is. It may be considered a parody, but it's an absolute gem with nothing but truth. The only chance we have for change is if we all do something. Get out and vote. Don, you've outdone yourself with this. It should be played on every street corner for all to hear for the next 2 months. Thanks for all you do.
Thank you, Don for another truthful song!
Boy, if I wasn't already dreading the rest of my days on this planet....
Do not dread your
days. On this planet.merry vhridtmas
Pray to God for the grace you need to move on. Merry Christmas.
Parody Project sings the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. With every video they teach me social studies that I never had in school. I am old, but proud that I am still learning.
Here's how I rewrote one verse a while back:
"Oh dutiful - of specious lies - of hampered lives in pain
Of pimpled clown man's fantasies - who loves to be insane
Hummerica, Hummerica - clods set that racist free
And drowned what could - out native good
Crumbs left for you and me.
Good one
Brilliant as always!
Beautiful and so sad too. See and hear this song ( more than twice ) brought tears in my eyes, also makes me think about the country i'm living in; The Netherlands .. the same shit happens over here. "We are about to see" ..indeed ..it happens all over the world, if you want to see it. Greetings from Amsterdam.
Brilliant 👏👏👏👏👏
Very sad but reflects our current
situation. !!
Very well put!👍😉🤔
Love seeing your new work. Well done!
I do not agree with what you say but love the way you say it. After all, I fought for the free speech for all.
Wow! Just wow!
old people need to tell the young the truth
Those harmonies!
I hate to have to say this because it's ridiculous, but I have to hide some of the most wonderful Parody videos from other people, people I thought I knew well. So PLEASE keep up your magnificent work ... it is life-saving for SO MANY of us ... now if we can remember how to "let freedom ring," we just might make salvage the country we love so much.
So ... I can't type tonight, but let's commit to saving and even improving the country we love.
Thank you for this moving description of the USA in 2020 - we may not like it but the only way out is facing this truth, then walking toward and through it
Wow how you do that? I am a classical musician but some of us don’t have good ears like you. Beautiful !
Outstanding!