PDLIF

Album: Single release only (2020)
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Songfacts®:

  • Bon Iver's Justin Vernon and a handful of collaborators created "PDLIF" (Please Don't Live in Fear) while self-isolating during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Over a rising three-note saxophone and pealing piano, Vernon croons words of hope and comfort.

    Please don't live in fear
    We can't see from here right now
    Send it off from here
    And free your mind


    Said Vernon: "It serves as a subtle reminder that, though apart, we're never alone; the importance of collaboration and community remains as strong as ever."
  • Vernon centered "PDLIF" on a sample from Alabaster dePlume's 2012 track "Visit Croatia." It was Polica drummer Drew Christopherson who introduced the Bon Iver frontman to the song, and it immediately inspired him.
  • That's L.A.-based artist Kacy Hill crooning the chorus. Her 2014 track "Experience" made several prominent top songs of the year lists.
  • Bon Iver is donating 100% of "PDLIF" proceeds to Direct Relief, the humanitarian aid organization coordinating with public health authorities, nonprofits, and businesses to deliver personal protective equipment to responders across the US and the world.
  • Bon Iver gave the song its live debut during an October 22, 201 concert at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California. It was the first of two special shows Justin Vernon and co. put on to commemorate the 10th anniversary of their eponymous second album.

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