October 14, 2024 — Afro Appalachian folk artist Mon Rovîa celebrates the release of ‘Winter Wash 24’, a song inspired by the International Rescue Committee (IRC)’s work in serving people affected by conflict, the climate crisis and economic hardship. The track is the second single from Mon Rovia’s forthcoming EP, Act 4: Atonement, set for release on January 10, 2025. The album explores themes of redemption, transformation, guilt, cognitive dissonance, and the healing power of love.
On the launch of his song MON ROVÎA says “‘Winter Wash 24’ is about the elephant in the room. The cognitive dissonance we feel in the west; witnessing the horrors on our phones, stuck feeling helpless in any of our efforts. So apathy grows.”
“Part of my inspiration for writing 'Winter Wash 24' comes from the incredible humanitarian work the IRC has done since Einstein spearheaded the organisation in the lead up to World War II. As someone born into conflict and rescued from war as a refugee, partnering with the IRC on this initiative holds deep personal significance. In these unprecedented times, it's more important than ever to find better ways to care for and love our neighbours."
Faith Akovi Cooper, IRC Regional Director for the U.S. Southern Border who, like Mon, escaped the Liberian war and lived in two refugee camps before resettling in the U.S, shared her reflection on the song: “With over 120 million people displaced globally, a number that has more than doubled over the past ten years, more attention is needed on the challenges refugees face in their journeys to find safety. Winter Wash 24 elevates the experience of refugees for listeners and demonstrates the power of welcome.“
The United Nations Refugee Agency estimates that approximately 2.9 million refugees will need resettlement in 2025, yet fewer than half of 1% of refugees will ever be resettled. Music has the power to unite people across borders - it's vital that the power of welcoming refugees and asylum seekers continues to inspire American culture.
WINTER WASH 24
Listen to the song here.
About Mon Rovîa
Liberia-born, Tennessee-based Afro-Appalachian Folk artist Mon Rovîa continues to make waves with his unique blend of cultural influences and heartfelt storytelling. Named one of Spotify’s 2024 Juniper Artists to Watch, Mon Rovîa has rapidly gained a devoted following, selling out every headline show to date. After making his festival debut at Bonnaroo this summer, he is set to perform at Austin City Limits this fall. His live performances also include a June tour with Gregory Alan Isakov and previous support for Josiah and the Bonnevilles. Internationally, Mon Rovîa is building momentum, with two sold-out shows in London. Mon Rovîa’s music has struck a chord on TikTok, with over half a billion views and notable fans including Bella Hadid, Lexi Hidalgo, and Carson Roney. His latest release, “crooked the road.,” marks a new chapter as he signs with Nettwerk Music Group.
For more information and press queries:
Stanford Prescott - International Rescue Committee
+1 646 628 7837 / [email protected]
Jamie Sussman - International Rescue Committee
+1-646-770-5223 / [email protected]
Abby Harari
Danielle Romeo