Jeff Zero, the Fort Worth pop singer-songwriter, has unveiled a new single titled “Fuck ‘Ice’,” expressing his frustration not just with the weather but with broader societal issues. The energetic track emerges as a rallying cry against the chilling influence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), reflecting a growing discontent across America.
“When I was a younger man, I was taught that ‘if you ever find yourself saying, “Somebody should do something,” remember that you are ‘somebody.’ So, I did,” Zero stated, emphasizing his motivation to take action through music. The new song serves as a poignant protest anthem, encapsulated in a catchy chorus: “Fuck ‘Ice’ / Do I have to say it twice? / No one wants you here / So, fuck you, ‘Ice.’”
Zero’s creative process began with a surge of frustration after consuming troubling news. He reached out to fellow artists, gathered them, and recorded the song in a studio, managing to create a polished piece in a short timeframe. The acoustic-driven melody pays homage to folk legends like Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie, merging modern protest with traditional sounds.
While the song ostensibly critiques the weather, Zero invites listeners to explore deeper interpretations. “’Ice’ can be dangerous,” he remarked, highlighting the various consequences of ice, both literally and metaphorically. He linked the dangers of icy conditions to the chilling actions of ICE, which he views as a threat to communities, particularly those with Democratic leanings.
Zero’s disdain for ICE stems from its aggressive tactics under the current administration. Data reveals that a significant percentage of ICE detainees lack serious criminal convictions, contradicting claims of targeting dangerous individuals. The artist views these actions as a means to instill fear in specific communities, deterring them from civic engagement.
“The short version is that I oppose the American gestapo that is ICE,” he explained. The recent events in Minneapolis and the tragic deaths of individuals during ICE operations pushed him to voice his dissent through music. “To remain silent is to be complicit,” he asserted.
In hopes of inspiring a wave of activism among local musicians, Zero referenced a fellow Fort Worth artist, Denver Williams, whose recent anti-fascist song sparked a significant awakening for him. “That was my wakeup call,” Zero reflected, noting the importance of collaboration in protest music.
Zero humbly attributes the song’s creation to a moment of raw emotion rather than premeditated artistry. “I was angry and frustrated and felt I needed to pick up my guitar to deal with my thoughts,” he shared, revealing that the song came together almost effortlessly in just twenty minutes.
The collaborative effort behind “Fuck ‘Ice’” involved numerous local musicians, including percussionist Mike McMurray and pianist/accordionist Tommy Henson. The spontaneous atmosphere in the studio contributed to a vibrant recording experience. “I am beyond happy with the results,” Zero expressed, grateful for the enthusiasm and support from his peers.
With the release of “Fuck ‘Ice’,” Zero aims to spark dialogue and inspire further protest music. He hopes the track encourages others to engage in activism through their art. The song is currently available for free streaming and download on Bandcamp, inviting listeners to join the movement.
