MICHAEL BECK
Q: Michael, your song “Tierra” beautifully infuses several different languages. What led you to incorporate Spanish, Portuguese, and English into the lyrics?
A: The part of the song that includes three different languages was originally sung in Spanish and is a universal “mantra” sung by many artists around the globe. So, it felt natural to sing in Spanish. The more global English language is used to translate the words from Spanish. Portuguese was included because the song features my dear friend and wonderful musician Chandra Lacombe, as well as my producer Txai Fernando, who are both Brazilian.
Q: The lyrics of “Tierra” are centered on our connection to the Earth. How did this become a theme in your music?
A: The Earth is divine, and I see myself as a divine being, and therefore very much connected to the Earth = Tierra (Pachamama), which is constantly providing for us in the eternal duality of life and death. The song is also a praise to the beauty and all the teachings we receive from the Earth.
Q: In the song, there are references to ‘Pachamama’ and ‘Mama Devi’. How do these deities affect the overall message of “Tierra”?
A: Definitely a lot. It’s so important to treat our Earth (Pachamama), nature, and all living beings with love and respect. Mama Devi, the ever-embracing and endless giver in the cycle of birth, embodies unconditional love and compassion. By singing and praising Pachamama and Mama Devi, I hope to support us all in knowing and trusting that everything is taken care of and that we are always supported and loved.
Q: Do you think divine protection plays a part in our interaction with nature?
A: Yes, I do. In the big picture, I trust the divine orchestration and the biological cycles, and I am happy to see that more and more humans are becoming aware of the importance of protecting and honoring the Earth and nature.
Q: In ‘Tierra’, there is talk about raising hands and gathering the tribe. What does this community spirit mean in relation to this particular song?
A: Community spirit and being with like-minded souls who share a common interest in raising awareness play an important role in creating a healthier and more loving environment on Earth.
Q: The track refers to nature as an educator. In what way does nature impart wisdom to us?
A: There is so much magnificence in nature. One example could be the wisdom of trees, which beckons us to slow down, listen, and rediscover the profound teachings that nature has been whispering through the rustling leaves and swaying branches for centuries. We could easily write a whole book or more on the subject.
Q: The song reveals a feeling of oneness with nature. How do you think this affects our day-to-day lives and interactions with others?
A: Again, a very big question. In ancient traditions, it was natural to praise and live in harmony with nature, understanding how to protect and honor it. Yes, I believe it affects our day-to-day lives, but unfortunately, many have lost this connection in the fast-moving modern material world. I find comfort in knowing that whether we feel one with nature or not, we are always connected. We are made of the same atoms as nature and Earth’s creations, and therefore, we are one and the same.
Q: Can you elaborate on the metaphor of spreading wings and flying as used in the song? What does it mean to you?
A: Humans, as divine beings, have such amazing potential. The energies of the rain, the wind, and the sun in the sky were, for me, a beautiful symbol of greatness, supporting the lifting of this divine potential into manifestation as “spread our wings and fly.”
Q: The song talks about sharing the breath of life with trees and birds. What is the message about our association with other life forms?
A: I could relate this back to my earlier answer about oneness and our connection with nature. All life forms are made of the same atoms, so disconnecting from that will only create negative energies and experiences. For example, we all live and breathe the same air, and perhaps this understanding can help us respect nature, each other, and all other forms of life.
Q: How do cosmic elements such as stars or rivers relate to the human experience according to the song?
A: Looking out at the night sky and watching the stars can awaken feelings of the soul’s eternity and greatness. Observing the “dance” of the sun and the moon lighting up the sky eternally can inspire a sense of humility and gratitude. The flow of rivers symbolizes the unstoppable and constant movement of water and life, teaching us about the concept of “surrender,” which is also the name of the full album that “Tierra” is a part of.
Q: Isn’t “The grace from the fire that burns inside” quite poetic? Does this internal flame have anything to do with personal enlightenment and direction?
A: When I wrote the lyrics for “Tierra,” I didn’t “think” much about the words. They came very fast and spontaneously, like channeling. Upon reflection, I can see that the lyrics can inspire deep thought for those who choose to dive into the words. So yes, I believe it can be seen as quite poetic. The internal flame can represent personal enlightenment, and I believe that if we can ignite this flame, it will spark our spiritual evolution and growth, and therefore also guide our direction.
Q: How do you expect listeners to respond to the spiritual and natural themes in “Tierra”?
A: To be honest, I don’t have any specific expectations for how the message in the lyrics will be received. The teachings that may arise from the lyrics will vary for each listener. The most important thing for me is that the song is enjoyed, and I trust that whatever is received from the words, the message and music will energetically support the opening of hearts and provide a sense of trust and connectedness.
Q: What challenges did you face when composing lyrics that connect multiple languages and cultural references?
A: No challenges at all. I have a large circle of friends all over the world, and it feels very good to share the qualities and beauty of several languages and cultures. If I had to mention one challenge, it would be pronouncing Spanish correctly ☺
Q: Could you provide some insight into how different cultural and spiritual elements were blended in making this music?
A: That’s the beauty of music, as well as other things. There are no differences. Since this song speaks about oneness, I never felt any cultural difference in the making. It was incredible to witness the symbiosis taking place, giving life to this song as well as the others on the full album. There are musicians from all over the world represented on it. Maybe the producer could speak more about this, as he is the one who put it all together, but I believe he would share the same sentiment as I do.
Q: In what ways can “Tierra” help us appreciate our natural world more deeply?
A: I hope and wish that this song can reach a lot of people and inspire many. I believe that to appreciate our natural world more deeply, we must first appreciate ourselves more deeply. For this to happen, it takes courage to delve into our spiritual path and, through that, to understand more about oneness and our connectedness with nature. By loving and appreciating ourselves more, we will also start loving and appreciating more “on the outside.”
Q: The lyrics urge for group participation in essential activities. Can you discuss your perception of this issue in relation to the communities around us?
A: Luckily, a large part of my network aligns with the message in this song, and these like-minded communities are growing in number every day. As more and more people join this path, the energy intensifies and grows even faster. Unfortunately, there are still many people who are not partaking much in this growth and expansion of awareness, but I feel and trust that it is happening more rapidly now than ever before. Light is being shed on darkness in these times, and many old structures and control mechanisms are falling apart. I pray that “Tierra” can take part in this evolution, bringing more love and light to where it is needed.
Q: Can you remember any specific incidents or episodes that played a part in the creation of the lyrics of “Tierra”?
A: One thing that stands out is when Brazilian producer Txai Fernando and I made a little homemade studio in the basement room of one of my friends here in Copenhagen. We invited two African musician friends, Moussa Diallo, a very talented and skilled bass player, and the amazing master drummer and percussionist Sylvester Agdeboglo, to play on this song. I still have very clear pictures in my mind of all the colors of music, clothes, instruments, and cultures in that Copenhagen basement room, playing, singing, smiling, and having a good time together. Writing about this still brings a huge smile to my face.
Q: How does self-reflection come into play as you write songs, particularly one so focused on spirituality like “Tierra”?
A: Self-reflection is a big part of my daily spiritual practice, as well as paying attention to all my physical and emotional attractions. It is important for me to take ownership of the places within me that don’t feel good, and where I am not feeling uplifted. “Tierra,” like other songs, was written from a place of experience with life and from the wisdom received from it. So, with that said, self-reflection is definitely in play when writing songs.
Q: The music refers to being taught by the environment. How do you personally involve yourself with nature to gain more knowledge?
A: That is definitely an area I would like to evolve more in and prioritize with more time. Like many, I feel that nature is the best place to ground myself and still the mind, enjoying all the elements. The most calming place for me to be is by the water, listening to the sound of waves.
Q: What will be the connection between “Tierra” and its audiences who may not have similar spiritual or cultural backgrounds?
A: I believe that no matter the spiritual or cultural background, the unconscious will always align and connect. The most important thing is that the sound and vibration of the music are enjoyable to listen to, and we will all have experiences on different levels, both with the music itself and the message in the lyrics. I feel that “Tierra” is a song everyone can enjoy listening to.
Q: In your opinion, how will “Tierra” affect people’s relationship with their spirituality?
A: As I mentioned earlier, I feel that “Tierra” has the potential to reach many people. It’s a very simple song in its composition, so it will be easy for people to sing along. By listening and perhaps singing along, I hope it can touch something within and support lifting the vibration for many. I’m aware that some might turn in other directions because of the deeper spiritual praise in the lyrics. I wish to be authentic and, with that, write songs from the heart and from a vibration of love, without focusing on who likes the song or the message. There is something for all of us, and I believe “Tierra” has the potential to reach many hearts in many cultures.
