Daily Dose of Protest: We Won’t Go Back – MILCK, BIIANCO, Autumn Rowe (featuring Ani DiFranco)

Credit: Lorie Shaull

Back on January 21st, 2017, singer-songwriter MILCK went viral when she organized a flash mob performance of her song “Quiet” at the Women’s March On Washington. The tune was motivated by her past experiences with sexual and physical abuse. It ended up becoming an enduring anthem of empowerment. Since then, she continues to write and record socially conscious music.

The genesis of her latest protest anthem was the result of attending a pro-choice rally on the steps of the DC Supreme Court, just prior to the overturning of Roe v. Wade. The tune features samples of protesters shouting, “We won’t go back!” She converted the audio and posted it online with the intent that other musician and activist would contribute their voices and stories.

“Community is the cure for most problems, and this song was no exception,” says MILCK. “BIIANCO jumped on as lead producer and co-writer. My Instagram follower @malmooge contributed lyrics. Autumn Rowe lent her vocals, and Ani DiFranco added a whole layer of badassery with her vocals and guitar.”

Of course, DiFranco is no stranger to employing music as an extension of her activism. This includes composing her own poignant pro-choice songs such as 1990’s “Lost Woman Song”, 1999’s “Hello, Birmingham” and 2016’s “Play God”.

Because of the actual overturning, MILCK decided to release the song earlier than intended. Also, 50 percent of the proceeds from the YouTube release will be donated to Planned Parenthood. The protest single will be available on June 30 to stream on other platforms. Yet again, MILCK composed a timely anthem, tailor-made for rallies.