Working for Freedom from Gun Violence Donate

King Soopers Survivor Pens Song to Stand Up for Democracy

Stand Up for Democracy” was inspired by teacher/author Ellen Mahoney who lost her husband, Kevin Mahoney, in the 2021 King Soopers shooting in Boulder that tragically took 10 lives. “That was a terrible loss,” Ellen said. “And then over the years I kept hearing that our democracy was at stake and I wanted to do something.” Believing in the power of music to create change, she went on to write lyrics for “Stand Up for Democracy” last spring.

The song is sung by award-winning singer-songwriter Cody Qualls, whose emotion-packed vocals shed light on keeping hope, staying strong, and standing up for our democratic ideals. “What started out as a simple effort–helping a friend put her freedom-inspired lyrics to song–turned out to be something entirely unexpected,” Cody said. “Everyone involved in this project has been stunned at how moving the song turned out. While we can never fully mend the loss of Ellen’s husband, Kevin, it brings us all great joy to move forward in continuing the very important conversation of a possibly threatened democracy in the U.S.”

“Stand Up for Democracy” was cowritten by Cody Qualls, (founder of both the popular band Cody Qualls & The Brand New Ancients, and Whole Body Singing), Justin Long (Musician/Producer at Performance High Voice and Music Studio in Denver), and Ellen Mahoney.

Justin Long produced the song, which also features Colorado R&B vocalist John Polk, and Cody’s eight-year-old daughter, Chloe Qualls, who adds her youthful voice. The song was released on 8-29-24 on Spotify and other streaming platforms. Or listen here!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest