With song titles like “Can You Show Me on the Doll Where Mr. Bevin Touched You?” and “Crotch Crucifix,” more than 40 musicians have collaborated on a digital-only compilation about Kentucky's Republican governor called “We Have a Matt Bevin Problem.”
The 43-track project was organized by several Louisville artists who are seeking to remain anonymous for what they say is fear of professional ramifications. Contacted independently by WFPL, each declined to discuss the work on the record. The group is promoting the work -- released Monday -- via social media.
“Musicians in Kentucky responded in song to the attacks on women’s reproductive rights, affordable health care, the LGBTQIA+ community, education and progress in general in our beloved state through song," the organizers said in a news release.
All funds from the download will be donated to Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky.
The musicians are responding to several recent moves by the governor. In February, Bevin's administration filed suit against Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky, alleging it violated state law by performing abortions without a license at its new facility in Louisville.
The songs also respond to his dismantling of Kynect, the state's health insurance exchange created under the Affordable Care Act, and his order imposing funding cuts to state colleges and universities.
Jessica Ditto, a spokeswoman for Bevin, declined to comment on the album.
J. Mitchell is a member of the Louisville band Nellie Pearl, which contributed a song called “Comfort in the Right.”
“I was excited to find out about the project because everyone in the band is very outspoken about their views, and we try to get involved in the political process when we can,” Mitchell said. “I mean, we’re not just trying to jump on and rattle a cage for no reason.”
Mitchell said he hopes that, in addition to providing funding for Planned Parenthood, the album will prompt discussion.
Some songs on the compilation are more lyrical assaults on Bevin than conversation starters. Take "Lunatic You Make Me Sick" by D.W. Box, which goes, in part:
Carl Daniel of the Louisville band “Shawn Sleeps Naked” said he joined the project because he is a supporter of Planned Parenthood.
“I believe that, you know, the Supreme Court said that women have the right to choose, but not all women have the means anymore,” Daniels says. “So I thought it was a good reason and a good cause.”
More information about the download can be found here.