Black Eyed Peas Reignite “Where Is The Love?” for Democracy Summer 2020, Inspiring a Generation to Vote

In a world grappling with unprecedented challenges, the power of music to unite and inspire remains as potent as ever. This was brilliantly demonstrated at #DemocracySummer2020, where the iconic Black Eyed Peas delivered an electrifying virtual performance. At the heart of their set was their timeless 2003 hit, “Where Is The Love?”, repurposed for a crucial modern cause: encouraging voter registration and civic engagement, especially among young people. Their participation underscored a vital message that resonated far beyond the digital stage: your voice matters, and your vote can shape the future.

The Grammy-winning group, known for their genre-bending sound and socially conscious lyrics, brought their signature energy to the virtual event on June 18. Teaming up with one of their most cherished long-term partners, Rock The Vote, the Black Eyed Peas leveraged their global platform to champion a cause they have steadfastly supported for years. The band’s lineup for this significant occasion featured founding members will.i.am (45), apl.de.ap (45), and Taboo (44), alongside their amazing new vocal addition, J Rey Soul. They kicked off their dynamic performance with their feel-good summer hit, “Ritmo,” immediately setting a vibrant, grooving atmosphere in living rooms worldwide before transitioning to their powerful anthem.

“If You Can TikTok, You Can Vote”: will.i.am’s Powerful Call to Action

Between songs, will.i.am delivered a compelling and direct speech that cut through the noise, specifically addressing the youth audience. “We have a long history with Rock The Vote,” he began, emphasizing the group’s enduring commitment. “It’s super important for the youth to go out and vote for your voice to be heard.” His message was a masterclass in modern persuasion, bridging the gap between digital native habits and civic responsibility. He passionately argued, “If you can go on TikTok then you can go out and vote. If you can go on WhatsApp you can go out and vote. If you can use Instagram — you can instantly vote and change America.”

This analogy struck a chord with a generation deeply embedded in digital culture. will.i.am articulated that the same ease and accessibility found in everyday social media interactions should extend to the fundamental act of voting. It’s not a monumental task, but rather a direct and impactful extension of their online presence. The Los Angeles native concluded his impassioned plea with a poignant reminder, directly referencing the group’s breakout 2003 hit: “Because if you don’t, we’re always going to have to say ‘where is the love?'” This rhetorical question served as a stark warning, highlighting the consequences of inaction and connecting it powerfully to the emotional core of their most famous song.

“Where Is The Love?”: A Timeless Anthem for a Divided World

Following will.i.am’s heartfelt address, the Black Eyed Peas launched into a stirring rendition of “Where Is The Love?” for the #DemocracySummer2020 audience. The song, which originally featured an uncredited Justin Timberlake on vocals, resonated with profound depth as it revisited the track’s prescient lyrical themes. Released in 2003, at a time of global unrest and heightened social tensions, the song was a powerful commentary on pervasive world issues, earning a prestigious 2004 Grammy nomination for Song of the Year. Its lyrics are a direct reflection of societal ailments, posing questions that, tragically, remain relevant today:

“People killin’ people dyin’
Children hurtin’, I hear them cryin’
Can you practice what you preachin’?”

More than two decades later, these lines continue to echo the sentiments of a world still grappling with conflict, inequality, and a yearning for compassion. The performance at #DemocracySummer2020 transformed “Where Is The Love?” from a nostalgic hit into an urgent rallying cry, reminding listeners that the pursuit of a better world begins with active participation. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal message of peace, understanding, and critical self-reflection, making it the perfect anthem for an event dedicated to fostering democratic engagement.

Rock The Vote and the Vision of #DemocracySummer2020

The Black Eyed Peas’ powerful involvement was a cornerstone of #DemocracySummer2020, an initiative spearheaded by Rock The Vote, an organization that has been at the forefront of youth voter engagement since 1990. Prior to the virtual festival, the group released a statement explaining their deep commitment to the cause: “We’ve been riding with Rock The Vote for a long time,” they affirmed. “Now more than ever, voting is key for longterm change. The youth vote is going to decide the future of America. It’s not just our duty, but our honor to spread the word in an election year. Get out there and let’s make history together!” Their words underscored the profound belief in the transformative power of young voters.

Rock The Vote partnered with a diverse array of voters’ rights groups and advocacy organizations for the two-hour event, amplifying its reach and impact. Among the prominent collaborators was Michelle Obama’s impactful initiative, When We All Vote, further cementing the broad coalition dedicated to fostering civic duty. The virtual stage also welcomed an eclectic and star-studded lineup of performers and speakers, including co-headliner Katy Perry, all united by a singular, vital goal: to inspire and facilitate voter registration before the crucial November 3 presidential election.

The event itself served as a powerful kick-off for an ambitious new initiative. Rock The Vote, in strategic partnership with When We All Vote and numerous other organizations, set an inspiring target: to register an astounding 200,000 new voters over the course of Summer 2020. This collective effort highlighted the urgency of the moment and the critical role that every single registered voter plays in shaping the democratic process. The virtual format, necessitated by the global pandemic, ironically allowed the message to transcend geographical boundaries, reaching a potentially larger and more diverse audience than a traditional in-person event.

The Undeniable Power of the Youth Vote in Shaping America’s Future

The central theme of #DemocracySummer2020 and the Black Eyed Peas’ impassioned plea was the undeniable importance of the youth vote. Historically, younger generations have often shown lower voter turnout rates compared to older demographics. However, as will.i.am highlighted, this generation is incredibly active and vocal on social media, demonstrating a profound capacity for collective action and influence. Translating that digital engagement into tangible civic participation is key to driving real, lasting change.

Young people today face critical issues that directly impact their future: climate change, economic opportunity, social justice reform, education, and healthcare. Voting offers them the most direct and powerful mechanism to advocate for policies and leaders who reflect their values and address these concerns. Their collective voice, when amplified at the ballot box, has the potential to dramatically shift political landscapes and ensure that their perspectives are not just heard, but acted upon. The 2020 election, set against a backdrop of significant social and political upheaval, presented a unique opportunity for young voters to exercise their power and chart a new course for the nation.

Organizations like Rock The Vote understand that apathy is often born from a feeling of being unheard or that one’s vote doesn’t make a difference. Events like #DemocracySummer2020 directly confront this by showcasing influential figures like the Black Eyed Peas, Katy Perry, and Michelle Obama, all echoing the same message: every vote counts. By providing easy access to registration tools and demystifying the voting process, these initiatives empower young citizens to overcome barriers and actively participate in shaping their democracy.

Make Your Voice Heard: Register to Vote Today

The Black Eyed Peas, through their enduring music and unwavering commitment, have worked tirelessly over the years to inspire positive change. Their performance at #DemocracySummer2020 was a heartfelt plea for active citizenship, a testament to their belief in the power of the individual to contribute to the collective good. Now, it’s up to each eligible citizen to heed their call. Don’t let their hard work, and the efforts of countless others, go unheard. Make will.i.am, and more importantly, your country, proud by ensuring your voice is counted in November and beyond.

Registering to vote is simpler than ever before, taking just a few minutes of your time. It is a fundamental right and a civic duty that strengthens the very fabric of democracy. Take the crucial step towards making your impact felt – you can easily do it by filling out the form below. Your future, and the future of America, depends on your active participation. Let’s make history together.