The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus are no strangers to topic of real-life themes for their music and 17 years into their career, they’re back in the spotlight thanks to the release of their current single, “Brace Yourself”. The song has resonated with numerous people since its release during the early phase of the coronavirus pandemic in the U.S. Lead singer Ronnie Winter stated, “There’s no doubt about synergy with the lyrics of this song and
current events. Many people are still in denial of this global pandemic and we implore them to follow instructions on
social space and take personal safety measures seriously.” The song was actually written way before the pandemic and inspired by the experience that the mother of band-mate Josh Burke was going through in dealing with breast cancer. Ironically, the themes of trusting science and finding inner strength are common with the current pandemic. Winter stated, “With some celebrities and public figures denying or downplaying the severity of the issue, or worse yet making fun of the pandemic on social media – we thought it was important to go the other way. Do what you can,
however you can. Help someone, and take care of yourself and the ones you love – for everyone’s sake.”
Winter spoke with B-Sides host Pete Mar about the making of “Brace Yourself”, how the associated lyric video featuring the coronavirus graphics came about, what their new music on their forthcoming EP, ‘Emergency’ will sound like and more.
