ESTRADA MUSIC PROJECT
Q What motivated you to write “We Are Not God” and address the issue of humility in the health care environment?
A: We Are Not God was the second song on Estrada’s solo project. Many years of working with colleagues, nurses, and medical staff inspired me to write this song as a reminder that we are who we are, only for our patients. Many people in hospitals work with love and compassion, but others focus on personal development, which isn’t wrong, but should never come first when working with people with medical conditions.
Q Can you discuss the event or period that initiated the message of the song?
A: I’ve always been against those who believe themselves superior to others because of a title, money, or fame. To understand the problems of the community, you have to be part of it; patients need someone they can trust. I think the trigger was the day I was admitted as a patient. I remember walking down some hallways and encountering colleagues who didn’t recognize me as a doctor, and I can’t forget how difficult it was to approach them without my uniform.
Q You decided on the line “we are not God” as the theme of the lyrics. Why?
A: Because our work requires making crucial decisions about life and death, and despite how difficult it may be, we must listen carefully to the concerns of the patient and their family to guide them along the best path. We cannot make decisions based solely on our trust, rank, or position; it is not easy, so don’t take it lightly. That’s why we are not God.
Q Did a particular story or actual incident trigger the lyrics?
A: Well, I’ve been fortunate to work with well-meaning colleagues in the three countries where I’ve practiced as a urologist, but I remember one who used to view patients as “potential customers,” offering expensive treatment when the solution was quite conservative and free. This is more noticeable in the private sector.
Q What is honesty to you in terms of assisting others?
A: Explain their medical situation to patients and take the time to ensure they understand the pros and cons of each option offered. Again, this is for their own benefit.
Q What do you want healthcare workers’ reactions to be to this song?
A: To make them reflect on whether they are doing the things they should be doing correctly, and if not, it’s time to change it.
Q Do you think that people use politeness as a cover more than genuine kindness?
A: Thank God not many, but I have seen some fake smiles.
Q How did you approach writing about fake behavior without sounding too harsh?
A: It’s impossible not to, but even though I’m part of the medical community and have fantastic colleagues and friends, we are doctors for our patients, and we’re all equal. We’re not members of an elite group, nor what some people would like to believe.
Q The lyrics are quite straightforward—was that a deliberate choice from the beginning?
A: Totally, I’m a fan of clear messages, so in this particular song I wanted people to understand what I’m saying without any noise (a lot of synth noise, but you know what I mean :))
Q What is your personal interpretation of the line “please don’t hurt”?
A: My father is also a urologist, and he once told me, “You always have to put yourself in the patient’s shoes” and make decisions with patient’s best interests in mind. This avoids the risk to take actions that benefit you, such as finishing early, avoiding complications, delaying procedures, or making money. The vast majority of doctors I know aren’t like that, and believe me, I know plenty, but these things still happen.
Q Was it difficult to balance criticism and empathy in the lyrics?
A: No, it’s crazy, but I feel like someone is holding my hand and pushing me forward. I had a clear message to share, and I don’t really care if it’s polite or not. If someone gets offended, it’s because they’re not doing their job right.
Q Do you believe it is hard for people to admit they do not know everything?
A: I don’t think so. Again, we’re all human and we don’t know everything. In medicine, 1 + 1 doesn’t always equal 2, so we should seek help without delay or shame, no matter who you are or what you do.
Q Did composing this song alter your perception of care or service?
A: Not at all. This is my most sincere project, that’s how I’ve always thought about it.
Q How do you think music can affect the behavior of people in professional settings such as healthcare?
A: Music can make you express your deepest, truest feelings and can inspire you to do incredible things. Love is the key.
Q What do you want someone who feels mistreated or unheard to take away from this track?
A: Let them know, there are many doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers in general who offer so much love in different ways every day. This song is a reminder to encourage them to keep trying, but also a kind invitation to those who are just pretending.
Q Did you have somebody in particular in mind when you wrote, or was it more of a general contemplation?
A: So general
Q What do you see in the future for yourself writing songs with this type of emotional and social message?
A: I have about 20 songs recorded, and 5 of them have already been produced. They all deal with real-life situations in the medical world: as a doctor, a patient, a husband, a human being. That’s what the ESTRADA Music Project is all about.
