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July 26, 2024: Today, first-generation Indian-American singer-songwriter Zeshan B has released a new studio album, O Say, Can You See?. The 13-song collection of social justice tunes blends Chicago soul and R&B with gospel music, classical orchestrations and jazz improvisation, plus the Urdu music Zeshan grew up with.
O Say, Can You See? is executive produced by former U.S. Attorney for New York’s Southern District, Preet Bharara, who shares a passion for social justice and unity through art. In Zeshan's own words, "All Preet's life, he has fought for justice in the courtroom. All my life, I’ve fought for justice with a microphone."
"I've always valued passionate voices, and Zeshan's commitment to justice through music resonates deeply with me,” says Bharara. "Our collaboration on this album has been a profoundly inspiring and unforeseen journey in my career. I take great pride in what we’ve created together. And I look forward to watching Zeshan foster community through song.”
Each of the songs were written by Zeshan in the midst of life-altering "low points" in recent American history, including the murder of George Floyd, the 2020 election, the January 6th riot, and the day Roe v. Wade was overturned. Despite challenging topics, each song is infused with courage and hope for the future. The recently-released single “Mountaintop” was written on June 24, 2022 after Zeshan learned of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade. "Some songs take longer to write. But this one? It came out fast," says Zeshan. "The impetus was too powerful." Listen to “Mountaintop,” fittingly released on the 2nd anniversary of the Dobbs decision HERE.
O Say, Can You See? was recorded live in Brooklyn, NY. It’s produced by Mike MacAllister (who also co-wrote and performed on a few of the tunes) and features a talented cast of musicians including concert-master Antoine Silverman’s chamber orchestra and singers from the famed Resistance Revival Chorus.
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