twenty one pilots releases "Level of Concern"

By Marisa Mastropieri

The noteworthy alternative band, none other than, twenty one pilots has released a song entitled "Level of Concern" during this unsettling time. COVID-19 is on all of our minds just as much as it’s on vocalist Tyler Joseph’s. Highlighted within the lyrics, is the need to keep positive as we go through this together yet separate. 

“Level of Concern” is the first single since the release of their most recent album 2018 Trench. According to the Alternative Press, it has amassed 1,079,000 sales as of April 11, 2019 earning platinum status. Being the first twenty one pilots song produced on an electric guitar, it’s a special track since the commercial success of Trench.

The lyrics, although not as poetic as most of their past songs, are simple enough to reach audiences that aren’t within their usual range. Yet isn’t that the point though? Exposure to this song, in particular, is most important since it allows for a feeling of unity during this time as we cling to loved ones with hopes of better and brighter days to follow. 

A prominent line of the first verse that stood out during my first listen was “Panic on the brain, the world has gone insane.” I think this encapsulates that the most prominent reaction to any new finding or news release increases our likelihood to continue to worry for our loved ones and global suffering. The chorus stating “Just need you to tell me we’re alright; Tell me we’re okay” brings in the consideration of reassurance. As the chorus goes on it changes to an alteration in emphasis to be reassured that we will get out of this and soon enough be better altogether. 

Speculations have been made that Tyler Joseph’s mother thought of the idea to make a song as a means of saving grace during this time.

To add another reason to the list of why I love this band is that they decided to donate a portion of the proceeds from the single to Crew Nation, an organization dedicated to helping those unemployed in the live performance industry in any capacity who are currently suffering during this pandemic. Live Nation, who started the initiative of Crew Nation, has committed to donating ten million dollars to the fund in hopes of seeing touring come back soon and those who work incredibly hard on the road to keep afloat. The fund has been successful with support from many artists such as bands like Coldplay to solo artists like Post Malone; Genre has no bias when it comes to expressing support during this time. 

I’ve been able to see this struggle first hand as a member of a Facebook group for those currently involved in the music industry and those who aspire to be. The numerous posts that have come my way is disheartening to see. The unknown has those in the workforce terrified: from tours being canceled and postponed till who knows when and music releases unexpecting press besides virtual interviews.

There is a considerable amount of hope that is represented by this song. The human connection is everlasting and especially now companionship is necessary. Although this is not of the same caliber, the message being promoted reminds me of songs for a good cause that was sung in times of crises such as  “We are the World” by USA for Africa or “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid. It is for the best to stay sane and keep in touch with those closest to you. It is especially important to remember that every single one of us has an impact on how prolonged this pandemic can be. Music is the ultimate pathway that connects us. Songs hold even more importance in times of crisis.