(Credits: Lucy Dacus)
Lucy Dacus,the indie rock standout and key member of Boygenius,is widely praised for her heartfelt lyrics and powerful voice. Yet, her love for music extends beyond her own craft. Among her most cherished inspirations is LCD Soundsystem, a band she feels deserves more recognition for their songwriting than they often receive.
While LCD Soundsystem is celebrated for their high-energy live shows and infectious beats, Dacus believes their true genius lies in their lyrics, particularly those penned by frontman James Murphy. She argues that their reputation as a dance act sometimes overshadows the emotional depth of their music.
“I feel like this band is actually underrated for their songwriting as they are so well known for having a great live show and being really dance-y,” Dacus shared in 2021.“The music that they make has such a coherent vibe that you can kind of forget about the words.” She singled out their 2010 album This Is Happening, praising Murphy’s talent for creating songs that resonate deeply.“I think James Murphy is such an amazing songwriter, and his music literally moves me,” she added.
This Is Happening is often hailed as a defining moment for LCD Soundsystem, with Murphy masterfully blending raw energy and introspective lyrics. Dacus sees this duality as the heart of what makes the band’s work so impactful, even if their electrifying performances tend to dominate the conversation.
When it comes to seeing LCD Soundsystem live, Dacus has nothing but glowing praise. “I’ve never been happier than at an LCD Soundsystem show,” she admitted. Though, the band’s hiatus in the early 2010s was a personal blow. “I remember when they said they were gonna go on hiatus I cried,” she recalled. As their return, she’s attended three of their concerts, frequently enough opting to stand at the back of the venue for more dancing space.“I’ll just stand towards the back of the crowd so I have more room to move around,” she said.
The excitement continues to build as LCD Soundsystem is rumored to be working on new music, a prospect that has fans—and undoubtedly Dacus—eagerly awaiting what’s next. For an artist like Dacus, whose own work is deeply influenced by Murphy’s artistry, this could be a moment of creative inspiration.
Dr. evelyn Harper on Climate Science, Equity, and the path to a Enduring Future
Dr. evelyn harper, a leading figure in climate science and sustainable development, has dedicated her career to understanding and addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change. In a recent interview, she shared insights into her journey, the intersection of climate change and social justice, and the urgent actions needed to secure a sustainable future.
From Environmental Science to Climate Advocacy
dr. Harper’s passion for climate science ignited during her undergraduate studies in environmental science. “I was deeply influenced by the mounting evidence of climate change and its devastating impact on vulnerable communities,” she recalls. witnessing the destruction caused by extreme weather events, particularly in developing nations, solidified her commitment to finding solutions to these global challenges.
Climate Change as a Social Justice Issue
Dr. Harper’s research has consistently underscored the link between climate change and socioeconomic inequality. She emphasizes, “Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it’s a social justice issue. The communities least responsible for carbon emissions are often the hardest hit by its consequences—rising sea levels, droughts, and food insecurity.”
Her work advocates for equitable solutions that ensure renewable energy and sustainable agriculture are accessible to all, especially those in low-income and marginalized communities. “Addressing climate change requires us to prioritize fairness and inclusivity,” she adds.
Urgent Actions for Governments
Dr. Harper has been a vocal advocate for policy changes at both national and international levels. She identifies decarbonization as the most critical action governments must take. “Governments must accelerate the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources,” she asserts. “This involves investing in clean energy infrastructure, incentivizing green technologies, and implementing carbon pricing mechanisms.”
She also stresses the importance of international cooperation. “Climate change is a global problem that demands a unified response. Strengthening collaboration to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement is essential,” she explains.
Lessons from Resilient futures
Dr. Harper’s recent book,Resilient Futures: Building Sustainability in a changing World,has garnered widespread acclaim. She hopes readers take away a sense of urgency and hope. “The challenges we face are immense, but we have the tools and knowlege to address them,” she says.
The book highlights the importance of community-driven solutions,innovative technologies,and systemic change. “It’s a call to action for individuals, businesses, and governments to collaborate toward a sustainable and equitable future,” she adds.
Join the Movement
Dr. Harper’s insights remind us that climate action is not just the responsibility of policymakers—it’s a collective effort. By embracing sustainable practices and advocating for equitable solutions, we can all contribute to building a resilient future.
Empowering the Next Generation: Advice for Climate Action Advocates
For young people passionate about combating climate change, the enormity of the challenge can feel paralyzing. But according to Dr. Evelyn Harper,a leading voice in sustainability,the key lies in focusing on what you can control. “My advice is to focus on what you can control and find your niche,” she says. “Whether it’s through education, activism, or a career in sustainability, every effort counts.”
The path to meaningful change doesn’t require grand gestures. Often, it’s the small, consistent actions that grow into something transformative. Dr. Harper emphasizes the importance of staying informed and collaborating with like-minded individuals. “stay informed,collaborate with others,and don’t be afraid to push for bold solutions,” she advises. “The future is in your hands, and your voice matters.”
Young people today are uniquely positioned to drive progress in the fight against climate change. With access to information, technology, and global networks, they have the tools to make a difference. Dr. Harper’s message is clear: channel your passion into purposeful action. Whether it’s through advocating for policy changes, pursuing a career in environmental science, or simply educating others, every step forward contributes to a more sustainable future.
“Remember,change often starts small but can grow into something transformative.”
Dr. Evelyn Harper
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the scale of the climate crisis, but Dr. Harper’s insights offer a roadmap for turning anxiety into action. By finding your niche, staying informed, and collaborating with others, you can be part of the solution. The future of our planet depends on the collective efforts of individuals who are willing to take bold steps and speak up for what matters.
As Dr. Harper aptly puts it, “The future is in your hands.” So, take that first step, embrace your role in this vital movement, and remember that your voice has the power to inspire change.
