01 September 2025
Newsdesk
In a powerful act of musical activism, renowned singer-songwriter Billy Bragg has released a new song for Palestine, titled "Hundred Year Hunger." The track coincides with the launch of the Global Sumud Flotilla, an initiative to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and break the Israeli naval blockade.
"Hundred Year Hunger" delves into the history of food insecurity and malnutrition imposed on the Palestinian people, a struggle that Bragg frames as a century-long issue. The song's title is inspired by the recent book of the same name by author E Mark Windle. The lyrics reflect a deep sense of historical injustice, referencing olive groves, refugees, and the ongoing use of famine as a weapon.
The chorus of the song, "Sumud! Sumud! Lan narhal," carries a powerful message of resilience. "Sumud," an Arabic word meaning steadfastness or perseverance, is a term used by Palestinians to describe their nonviolent resistance to occupation. "Lan narhal" translates to "we will not leave," reinforcing a collective determination to remain on their land despite hardship.
Bragg recorded the song at Echo Town Studio, featuring his own vocals and guitar alongside JJ Stoney on keyboards and backing vocals. The release is a clear statement of solidarity with the Palestinian people and the humanitarian efforts of the Global Sumud Flotilla.
In addition to the new single, Bragg is also performing at the Days Like These benefit concert for Gaza on Saturday, September 20th, at the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire in London. The event, which raises funds for the Amos Trust’s Gaza Appeal, has added Billy Nomates to a lineup that includes Jamie Webster, Antony Szmierek, Reverend & The Makers, and others.
