In August (on the anniversary of the Lancashire witch trials), I wandered up the Pendle Hill to pay homage to all women who have been tried as witches and murdered. I allowed myself to feel some of the rage that this song has put words to.
A collaboration between the absolute force that is Delilah Bon and the equally brilliant talent that is ALT BLK ERA, this song is a war cry for women everywhere, past and present, lyrically addressing the thousands of innocent women killed during the 14th-17th century witch trials fuelled by religious fear-mongering, racism and misogyny. I’m telling you, if I’m ever in a tough spot this is the supergroup that I want on my side.
The lyrics refer to Betty Parris, the white daughter of a Christian minister whose allegations sparked the Salem witch trials. Betty accused the family’s slave, Tituba, of witchcraft. The release of this song during Black History Month couldn’t have been more appropriate, as I have to acknowledge the racism within the Betty Parris story. The judicial records of Tituba’s case highlight the assumptions made about Tituba in the comment, ‘a slave originating from the West Indies and probably practising hoodoo.’ Betty also referred to a black man (the devil) appearing to her in the night. Amazingly, Tituba was released after 13 months in Jail.
This song is about loyalty, friendship, and solidarity in the face of a world that has never believed women (unless they’re Betty and playing to a male ideal of reality). It’s feisty and defiant, daring the patriarchy to ignore us. More importantly, it is musically brilliant. I’ve loved Delilah’s other work and this builds on that. I get to hear her vocals and her brilliant punk scream in this metal hip hopera. Respect, Delilah and ALT BLK ERA, Massive respect!
Follow Delilah Bon on Delilah Bon | youtube | Tik Tok | Insta | X | Facebook