Artist: Bill Greenberg: Guitar, harmonica

Single: ‘When I’m Stronger;’ Released: June 14, 2024; Producer: Matt Bacon

Offering encouraging moments of hope through philosophical contemplation is one of the most endearing ways musicians can engage their audience during times of conflict. Singer Bill Greenberg is doing just that on his newly released single on Spotify, ‘When I’m Stronger.’

The New York City-based folk-rock crooner’s latest track is reminiscent of some of the most beloved politically-active artists of the past, as it draws upon Bob Dylan’s storytelling talents and Lou Reed’s musicality. Like his counterparts, Greenberg’s latest work not only entertains, but, more importantly, informs and challenges its listeners by appealing to their emotional chords.

The alt-folk singer, who has also made a name for himself with his guitar playing and songwriting skills, recently began releasing music again. ‘When I’m Stronger’ is premiering this summer, nearly 25 years after the release of ‘Basic Tracks,’ the first and only album his group, Bill’s Band, has released.

Greenberg was so inspired by the Russia/Ukraine conflict, he decided to unveil his first single in over two decades, the poignant tune, ‘Ukraine,’ last year. The vocalist decided to follow that single with ‘When I’m Stronger’ this year. Like his last song, his latest effort highlights his composition aptitude and storytelling brilliance.

Much like ‘Ukraine,’ ‘When I’m Stronger’ is relatable in its philosophical message that people of all backgrounds can feel moments of desolation. The latter single points out that people may have a vision of breaking out of their present situation, but they may not always have the hope to achieve that goal.

While the songwriter’s lyrics reflect on some of life’s darker lessons, he still shares his appreciation for the authentic human condition in his tracks. The initial hopeless he shares throughout ‘When I’m Stronger’ leads to a realistic search for redemption.

Not only do Greenberg’s insightful lyrics and brooding vocals make the tune a powerful examination into the human condition, but so are his instrumentations. The acoustic guitar riffs defy typical time signatures, which make them sound nothing like a standard 4/4 melody. The only break in the action is during a dramatic shift in the chord change for one bar at a time. Harmonica flourishes also notably emerge during the single’s conclusion., when this particular passage comes around.

‘When I’m Stronger’ is an ominous, realistic portrayal of the human condition, which is largely conveyed with artful qualities in Greenberg’s songwriting. Lingering hope persists, though an honest account that reminds listeners that breaking from of their present situation may not always be easy – or even possible. The track is a stunning showcase of the artist’s heartfelt lyricism, riveting vocal presence and intimate acoustic folk instrumentation. Like with ‘Ukraine,’ his latest single proves. that he’s one of the most important philosophical voices in the modern alt-folk-rock genre.

For more information on Greenberg, visit his TikTok and Spotify pages.