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"For Free" is a song by Joni Mitchell covered by Lana Del Rey, Weyes Blood and Zella Day. It's a song that reflects on the value of art in society, the distinction between art as a commodity and art as an expression of the soul of the artist. The song is told from the perspective of three different female characters who offer their experiences and insights on the role of art and artists in society.
The first verse, sung by Zella Day, portrays a wealthy woman who indulges in material pleasures such as staying in fancy hotels and buying expensive jewelry. She hears a street musician playing his clarinet for free, and though she is surrounded by noise and chaos, this music brings her comfort. The musician's selfless act highlights the value of art, regardless of its commercial or societal status.
The second verse, performed by Lana, offers a contrast to the first, as she sings about her own experience as a professional musician who performs for wealthy audiences. She has all the trappings of success, including a luxurious black limousine, yet her performances are driven by financial gain rather than creative expression. She laments the loss of artistic integrity and values the one-man band who performs out of pure passion.
The third verse, sung by Weyes Blood, speaks to the plight of street performers who go unnoticed in the face of commercialized art. The musician she observes is not recognized for his talent, even though his music is just as beautiful as that of the wealthy performers. She regrets not asking to join in harmony and leaving him to continue playing for free, without any recognition or appreciation.
Overall, "For Free" is a commentary on the price society places on artists and their work, and the importance of recognizing the value of art that doesn't come with a price tag. It encourages listeners to appreciate the art around us, even if it doesn't come with a monetary value, and to remember that true art is created for the love of the craft, not just for profit or fame.
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