A newly released charity single backed by Brian Eno, Neneh Cherry, and a coalition of high-profile artists has ignited sharp debate across the music world and beyond. Released under the banner Together for Palestine, the track Lullaby features contributions from Nadine Shah, Mabel, Celeste, and others, and follows a large-scale benefit concert held in September. What was intended as a humanitarian gesture has quickly become a flashpoint, with critics accusing the project of blurring the line between music, activism, and political messaging.
Lullaby is a reinterpretation of the traditional Palestinian song Yamma Mweel El Hawa, with English lyrics adapted by Peter Gabriel and new arrangements by Palestinian musician Nai Barghouti alongside composer Kieran Brunt. Supporters view the song as a respectful preservation of cultural heritage during a time of crisis, while detractors argue that reframing a folk lullaby for a Western charity single risks simplifying or instrumentalizing a deeply complex cultural and political reality.
Brian Eno has been particularly vocal about the project’s ambitions, stating that the group hopes to push the song to the top of the UK Christmas singles chart. His comments have fueled criticism from those who see the move as an attempt to politicize a traditionally festive and commercially driven chart race. Others counter that Christmas has historically been a moment for moral reflection and collective action, making it an appropriate platform for humanitarian appeals.
Nai Barghouti has described the song as a declaration of hope, dignity, and defiance, rooted in Palestinian musical heritage that she has carried since childhood. While many listeners have praised her perspective as authentic and necessary, opponents argue that the framing presents a one-sided narrative that risks alienating audiences who expect popular music to remain separate from geopolitical conflict.
Produced by Kieran Brunt with Benji B and Henri Davies, Lullaby features a broad ensemble of singers and choirs, with proceeds directed to the Together for Palestine Fund via the Choose Love charity. As the song circulates, it has become more than a fundraising release, standing at the center of a growing argument over whether artists should use their influence to take explicit political positions—or whether doing so undermines music’s role as a shared cultural space.
About the Author
