CELEBRITY BLOGGER: Megan Krizmanich

For Americans, voting is a priviledge. All people have a voice that deserves to be heard. One song that inspires me to push to have my voice heard is "Bloody Sunday" by U2. It is an overtly political song that describes the horror felt by a bystander. The song begins by saying, "I can't believe the news I heard today" and you come to find out that what the person has just overheard is the same news that they have been hearing over and over again for quite some time. Yet, it is apparent that nothing is being done to change those things that they keep hearing about.

War has been prominent not only in America but all throughout the world for hundreds of years. We continue to let war be a part of our world and we put up with having thousands of our soldiers become casualties—but what have we gained? Bono's lyrics inspired me to become active in politics because I believe that my voice can be heard and that I, too, can make a difference.

-Megan Krizmanich, American Teen

Let's See how Far We've Come

I am crazy about the new Matchbox 20 song "How Far We've Come." It reflects both the hopelessness and optimism my generation feels regarding their potential to "save the world."

Since I graduated, it's harder to keep the idealism I've always had, because there are so many older folks who think they just can't do enough to save the world. When I hear this song it reminds me to keep up the fight. It reminds me to ask myself every day, "What am I doing to help people and to save the world?" Stopping war, ending genocide in Darfur, combating global warming: What can I do, and how can I empower others?

The lyrics of the song ironically suggest that when things are coming to an end (whether it's my end or at the hands of big mushroom clouds) it makes sense to pretend nothing will happen to us. But the song is fast and empowering and I think they are really asking us how far we can go, how far we're ready to go, and if we're ready to go right now.

What Musical Artist Inspires YOU?

Rock the Vote and Wiretap magazine are very excited about our Rock the Trail reporters. We've selected 5 young journalist from Florida to California to capture this elections hottest news. By now you've heard from all 5; Raldon, Rebecca, DeNishia, Sarah and Jocelyn. Our reporters are currently writing about a song or musical artist (past or present) that inspires or motivates them to take action on a political or social issue. Stay tuned to hear their answers. But why stop here? We want to hear from you! What song and/or musical artist (past or present) inspires and motivates you to take action on a political or social issue, and why? Think long and hard because this is a pretty big honor to bestow on an artist.

An artists that inspires me would have to be Wyclef Jean who happens to be a Rock the Vote artist! Wyclef has never forgotten where he comes from and he works tirelessly to bring attention to his native land of Haiti! His music has a message and always makes me think critically about the world around me. It motivates to help others less fortunate than myself and gives me the desire to vote for public officials who care about those who are often forgotten.

Introducing the Rock the Trail Reporters

Our Rock the Trail reporters arrive in DC today for their debriefing, before they head out to cover the 2008 elections.

I asked them each to answer a few questions:

1. Describe your first time voting.
2. Who's your favorite Rock the Vote musical artist?
3. What issues matter most to you as a Rock the Trail journalist?

Check back soon to hear what each of our five new reporters has to say.