“Project 2024”: How Selma inspired BRELAND’s latest work

In recent years, BRELAND has experienced a remarkable journey.

He released his debut album, “Cross country,” in 2022, which showcased a dynamic interpretation of country music that now feels ahead of its time, reflecting the genre’s evolving landscape.

His tireless touring, countless accolades, and collaborations with prominent country music figures marked this period.

However, he recognized the need to pause, reflect and do some introspection to determine his future direction.

To facilitate this, he traveled to Selma, Alabama, a place with deep family roots as it was once home to his great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother.

This journey, inspired by a similar trip his mother took the previous year, culminated in the creation of a new EP titled “Project 2024.”

“Selma is often seen as a vibrant symbol of hope, freedom and resilience of American and African-American communities. However, it is also a city that many have largely ignored”, he comments.

The aftermath of a tornado that hit the area last year remains evident, with many 1960s storefronts empty.

“It is essentially a food dessert. The nearest hospital is 30 miles away. My visit revealed a community that was not what I expected, which made me realize that I could easily have grown up in such an environment.” BRELAND reflects. “Historically, these are my people.”

This enlightening experience underscored her desire to create music that highlights Selma and to compose songs that convey authentic narratives.

Such themes are prevalent throughout “Project 2024,” particularly in his collaboration with The War & Treaty on the track “Same Job,” which he characterizes as the most traditional country music on the EP.

In the lyrics, BRELAND shares a moving encounter at a meet and greet where a fan, a veteran who now works as a nurse, told his story of providing free healthcare to others.

He stated, “You and I play similar roles.”

To which I replied, “Certainly not. Your work is practical; you are directly helping those in need.”

He countered, “That’s exactly what you do.”

He continued, “We engage in the same work, albeit through different methods. Although our divine purposes may differ, if the essence of your efforts is to help, motivate, encourage, and love others, then we are indeed aligned in our mission.” he told.

This narrative resonated deeply, serving as the emotional core of the six-track EP, which ends with a reminder of humanity’s capacity for good.

Regarding the title “Project 2024,” BRELAND clarifies that it is unrelated to Project 2025, a substantial document advocating for significant change in American governance and society, which has been a frequent topic of discussion as the presidential election approaches.

“Having visited Selma and witnessed the experiences of its residents, I believe there are countless freedoms that we should not take for granted. I choose to convey this feeling through my music, making it more of a creative initiative than a political statement.” he elaborates.

“In more direct terms, this is the only project I will release in 2024. You can interpret it in that context,” he adds.

“The title may be a bit provocative, but perhaps this will encourage people to engage with it, whether positively or negatively.”

He emphasizes that listeners should not interpret any political connotations of the work.

“I don’t believe any of the songs on this project carry political themes. However, my presence in this arena as a vocal young black man, unafraid to engage in challenging discussions, has political implications. the music remains as accessible as possible.”

He achieved this by continuing the genre-blending approach he began with “Cross country.”

For example, “Movement” incorporates elements of Afrobeat, while “Ice cream” features southern gospel influences.

“Project 2024” It may not be political, but it transcends geographic boundaries and promotes human connections at every opportunity.