Femi and the Foundation repeatedly discuss silence in "Walk on By"

Femi and the Foundation essay on silence in "Walk on By". It's all too easy to skim past the suffering in today's world, but Femi and the Foundation's "Walk on By" cuts through the cacophony to demand attention for the injustice occurring. Originally penned in 2020 during the peak of the Black Lives Matter protests, the song retains its immediacy in 2025. The tension of the days gone by remains the same, the hate is still tangible, and the listener's choice remains: to walk on by or speak up. "Walk on By" is a captivating piece of music that combines heartfelt singing with vibrant, earthy instrumentation. 

The song has a pleasant groove and soulful infusions that make you want to dance along. However, underneath the radio-friendly tune is a message that no onlooker can afford to forget. By walking on when others are drowning, you join the pallbearers. Femi performs with raw emotion and focus, conveying conciliation and anger simultaneously.

 "Walk on By" is a musical demonstration of the bystander effect, an appeal to the soul to recognize the culpability and avoid it. It's a serene call for empathy and consolation rather than a violent tirade. As the track progresses, it becomes apparent that it's not meant to be a traditional protest anthem. "Walk on By" is an enchanting nudge asking you to stand still, listen, and care. For those who carefully curate playlists that convey a message and an audience that believes music can transform ideas, Femi and the Foundation's music is both inventive and classic simultaneously.

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