British singer Natasha Bedingfield and rapper Sean Paul have joined forces with other artists to combat climate change in a new tune called “Love Song to the Earth,” and its release is timed to Pope Francis’ first trip to the U.S.
In light of the trip, the artists are set to issue a call to action in Washington on Thursday, where they will perform the song during the Pope Francis Moral Action on Climate Justice Rally on the National Mall, along with singers Victoria Justice, Christina Grimmie and Q’orianka Kilcher.
“‘Love Song to the Earth’ is more than an anthem, it’s about hope and about making a difference together,” Bedingfield told CNN in an email.
The song was written by producers Toby Gad, John Shanks, Paul and Bedingfield.
“The first time Toby played me the song, I got goosebumps,” “Temperature” rapper Paul told CNN in an email.
“I think a lot about the environment and nature, especially growing up in Jamaica where it’s all around you. It’s a great cause, and one that unites all the people on the planet; and since it’s for charity, I’m all in,” Paul said, whose latest album “Full Frequency” gained a nomination for “Best Reggae Album” at the 2015 Grammy’s last week.
All proceeds from the song will support the work of Friends of the Earth U.S. and the U.N. Foundation to fight climate change.
Bedingfield added that it is her hope that “A Love Song for the Earth” will help politicians who have taken a stand on climate change, which includes Democratic candidates Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders.
“When we were asked by the UN to write a song, we wanted to write one that reminds us that having ownership of our world means taking care of it, not using it and abusing it,” Bedingfield said. “It is our hope that this song will support the politicians who are fighting for these changes and will rally people everywhere to take it personally and get involved in solutions, and also to encourage young people that protecting our planet is worthwhile and possible.”