Forward / Scratch is excited to present THREAT ADVISORY, a monthly program on 8 Ball Radio. The show roots itself in international solidarity, and aims to share the songs and histories of the fight for liberation of oppressed people. Each month a guest or organization discusses their cultural work, their diasporic history, and the soundtrack that empowers their movements. The music featured on the show includes songs by artists who unapologetically speak truth to power. As cultural workers, organizers, and consumers we choose to continue this legacy of speaking truth to power, and to inspire and educate our communities.
THREAT ADVISORY's seventh episode features the Palestinian Youth Choir. The PYC is an initiative aimed at reviving and preserving Palestinian culture, history, and the spirit of resistance through music. They serve not only as a platform for performance but also as an educational space where members deepen their understanding of Palestinian heritage and the socio-political context in which the music emerged. The choir focuses on the significance of the songs they perform, examining the meanings behind the lyrics, the poets and composers who created them, and the historical context in which the music was written.
The choir’s structure involves a combination of musical training and intellectual engagement. Members will participate in discussions about the themes and messages embedded in the songs, exploring the works of notable Palestinian poets and composers. These conversations will provide valuable insight into the history and politics of Palestine, helping to contextualize the music as a form of cultural resistance and expression.
In addition to musical rehearsals, they have workshops and educational sessions that highlight the role of music in Palestinian history and its significance as a tool of resistance and identity. Through their approach, the choir aims to foster a deeper connection to the songs and their meanings, while also developing a strong sense of collective purpose and cultural as well as national pride. The choir also engages in performances and public events that highlight these themes, reaching both local and global audiences and promoting awareness about Palestinian struggles and aspirations. The long-term goal of the Palestinian Youth Movement is to create a space where music, education, and activism converge to support the broader movement for justice and liberation.
Listen to the episode aired on August 18, 2025.
Tracklist
- Salute to Gaza - Salam Li Ghazza · Gaza Youth Choir
- Salam Li Ghazza · NYC Palestinian Youth Choir ** [1]
- My Homeland - Mawtini · NYC Palestinian Youth Choir ** [2]
- Eshhad Ya Halam · Hassan Alaa Ayad performed by NYC Palestinian Youth Choir ** [3]
- أغنية اللوز الأخضر فرقة العاشقين جديد
- Ya Talien · Eljabal Rola Azar
- Bala Wala Shi · Ziad Rahbani performed by NYC Palestinian Youth Choir ** [4]
- Bala Wala ****Shi · Ziad Rahbani & Rasha Rizk
- Ounadikom · Ahmad Kaabour
[2] Mawtini or My Homeland was originally written by Palestinian poet Ibrahim Touqan. Mawtini has become an anthem not just for Palestinians, but for people across the Arab world yearning for freedom. In the words of the member of PYM: “Mawtini reminds us that despite colonization, displacement, and erasure, our homeland lives within us. This song connects generations, from the Nakba to today’s youth, in a shared dream of return and liberation. It’s one of those songs that’s bigger than just one place, it’s been sung across the Arab world, especially in moments of protest and uprising.”
[3] Eshhad Ya Halam was written by Hassan Alaa Ayad, a 14-year-old Palestinian child singer from Nuseirat refugee camp. He was martyred under Israeli occupation bombardment in May, 2025.
[4] Bala Wala Shi was written by Ziad Rahbani, a Lebanese composer and playwright whose work deeply influenced revolutionary Arab music. Through satire, jazz, and bold critique, Ziad used music to challenge imperialism, sectarianism, and apathy. Ziad passed away in August, 2025.
You can listen to the tracklist in full on our YouTube playlist.