The iconic band New Radicals, known for their hit “You Get What You Give,” has resurfaced after their breakup following the release of their album Maybe You’ve Been Brainwashed Too. Band founder Gregg Alexander has been quietly writing songs for other artists over the years. New Radicals regained attention in recent times, especially after their track “You Get What You Give” became significant to Joe Biden’s late son Beau during his battle with cancer.
In a recent turn of events, Gregg Alexander disclosed that “Murder On The Dancefloor,” a track popularized by Sophie Ellis-Bextor in the UK in 2001 and re-popularized in the movie Saltburn last year, was initially intended to be the first single by New Radicals. A demo of the song was also shared by Alexander.
During the recent Democratic National Convention where Kamala Harris accepted the nomination, her husband Doug Emhoff walked out to “You Get What You Give.” Emhoff, echoing Beau Biden’s sentiment, has shown immense admiration for the band’s music.
Doug doing a walk through (with dancing) at the DNC podium. pic.com/Ze5NVB4ZHE
— Alex Thompson (@AlexThomp) August 19, 2024
Recently, Doug Emhoff and Gregg Alexander had a meeting leading to New Radicals releasing their renditions of “Murder On The Dancefloor” and “Begin Again,” an Oscar-nominated song co-written by Alexander and Danielle Brisebois for the 2014 film Begin Again. These are the first tracks released under the New Radicals name since 1998. Alexander also wrote a heartfelt letter to Doug Emhoff, considering these releases as a musical token for him. Below you can listen to the songs and read the letter.
Gregg Alexander’s letter to Doug Emhoff:
Dear Doug,
When I got the call to meet you at Russ & Daughters in New York to chat about various topics, little did I know that soon Kamala’s trajectory would change, potentially making you America’s first First Gentleman. Congratulations on this incredible journey!
It deeply touched me to learn that you’ve been using “You Get What You Give” as your campaign’s walk-on song since 2020, especially given that it was a personal choice as a music enthusiast and without knowing about the emotional connection the Biden family has to the song through Beau.
We were thrilled to receive your invitation to perform our song live again, as we did during the Biden inauguration in January 2021, this time at the DNC before Kamala’s VP nomination. While circumstances shifted with Kamala’s advancement, we appreciate you playing the song at the DNC.
Through this letter, I’m reaching out to fellow artists and music lovers across America, emphasizing the urgency for us to stand up for our democracy. The time is now for all of us to utilize our influence for the greater good, supporting candidates who uphold women’s rights, freedom, and the integrity of democracy.
As a gesture of appreciation for you, Doug, and our fans, we are releasing our version of “Murder On The Dancefloor” and the Oscar-nominated track “Lost Stars” from the film Begin Again. These releases aim to inspire and encourage voter turnout and support the fight for freedom.
It was revealed that Begin Again is making its way to Broadway, which is an honor for us as Adam Levine’s friends in Train are adapting the songs, with hopes of further enriching the Broadway experience following Once!
Despite the fact that “Murder On The Dancefloor” was initially intended as our debut single, it found success as Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s hit, climbing the global charts twice, notably due to its use in the poignant ending scene of Saltburn.
Our conversation in New York highlighted your genuine care for your country and its people, qualities that truly embody the spirit of a “new radical.” It is heartening to see support from figures like Hall & Oates and Robert Christgau, further validating our musical endeavors.
In an era where misinformation is rampant, the potential forthcoming policies from the Harris administration offer a glimmer of hope, particularly in addressing pressing issues such as mental health support and affordable healthcare.
It is essential to note that New Radicals remain unwavering in our stance against altering lyrics for commercial interests, refusing requests from pharmaceutical companies, and advocating for causes that align with our values.
In conclusion, Doug, amidst the challenges posed by divisive politics and societal unrest, I believe the healing and restorative power of music can help remedy the current mental health crises. Let’s strive to preserve democracy for future generations and vote with conviction!
To DJs and TikTokers worldwide, feel free to utilize and promote our music to champion women’s rights, minority inclusion, LGBTQ+ rights, and the enduring spirit of freedom around the world!
Doug and Kamala, the music resonates within you. Onward, to brighter horizons!
Gregg
P.S. Doug, when Begin Again hits Broadway next to our favorite deli, let’s share a moment and sing “Lost Stars” with Adam, Train, Keira, John, Kamala, and Danielle as a celebration of art and unity!
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