James Maslow Discusses New Song Filmed in Israel Amidst Conflict

Purpose of the Song and Video

• 🎶 James Maslow discusses his new song "On My Mind," created in collaboration with two Israeli artists.
• 🎬 The accompanying music video was filmed in Israel during the ongoing war, using the country's landscape as a backdrop.
• 💡 Maslow's intention is to showcase the beautiful sides of Israel, its diversity, and acceptance, aiming to serve as a bridge and shed a better light on Israel and Judaism.

Addressing Controversy and Antisemitism

• ⚠️ Maslow acknowledges the risk involved in his actions but states that standing up for Judaism, against antisemitism, and for Israel should not be controversial.
• 🗣️ He believes that much of the negative discourse surrounding Israel is inaccurate and can be countered by personal experience and conversation.
• 🤝 The song and his public stance are intended to start a conversation and encourage people to question potentially misleading information.

Balancing Perspectives on the Conflict

• ⚖️ Maslow agrees with the dual perspectives that Israel has the right to defend itself and that the situation in Gaza has been prolonged and difficult.
• 🕊️ He expresses hope for the return of hostages and the swift end to the war, praying for its conclusion in the coming days.
• 💔 He notes that since October 7th, the world has normalized hate and antisemitism to an alarming degree, which motivates his current actions.

Songwriting and Collaboration

• 🎤 Maslow shares that his favorite part of the song is the lyric "you're always on my mind," which was a contribution from his Israeli producer, Itai Shimoni.
• 🌍 Shimoni suggested the change to make the song resonate more in the Middle East and function as world music, enhancing its uniqueness.

Personal Motivation and Support

• ❤️ Maslow's loved ones, particularly his father, encouraged him to proceed with the song and video despite potential backlash.
• 🌟 His father reminded him that he would regret not acting on his beliefs, prompting Maslow to film in Israel in November 2023.
• 🤝 Maslow emphasizes his lifelong message of unification, focusing on commonalities rather than differences, and believes those who disagree with him don't truly know him.