The Know Better Do Better Project seeks to encourage conversation and awareness of songs that have played a role in sustaining systemic racism, and the writing of new alternative songs. We believe that by facing our music history, creating new songs, and making informed decisions about the songs we choose to sing, we amplify the positive power of music to shape a more just and inclusive world.
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” — Maya Angelou
Please note: Some of the content on this web site may not be appropriate for young children. Please use discretion.
Featured Songwriter
Louis Apollon
We are very pleased to welcome Louis as our newest contributing songwriter.
Want to contribute a song?
Here is how we wrote ours… (Hear the songs on our New Songs page.)
Tom Smith describes the process of writing "I'll Show You the Way" as an alternative to the Stephen Foster song, "Old Folks at Home (Swanee River)" for the K...
Olivia Brownlee describes the process of writing "Finders Keepers" as an alternative to the John Newton song, "Amazing Grace," for the Know Better Do Better ...
Carole Stephens describes the process of writing her song, "Jump & Twirl, Partner!" as an alternative for "Jump Jim Crow" for the Know Better Do Better Proje...
Kim Moberg tells us the background behind her song, "Sing At gayshi'!"
Sarah Fard describes the process of writing "I Can I Will" as an alternative to the traditional song, "Can't Dance Josie (Chicken on a Fencepost)" for the Kn...
Stuart Stotts describes the process of writing his song, "1 and 1" as an alternative for "Senie, Meanie, Minie, Moe" for the Know Better Do Better Project. h...
Mark Stepakoff describes the process of writing "I Can't Wait To Wake Up Tomorrow" as an alternative to the old-time song, "Hen House Blues" (by The Bentley ...
George Woods describes the process of writing "5 Whole Apple Pies" as an alternative to the traditional song, "5 Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed" for the K...
Kim Wallach describes the process of writing "A year in the Garden" as an alternative to the traditional song, "I've Been Working on the Railroad" for the Kn...
Eric Law describes the process of writing his song, "Counting Counts" as an alternative for "Ten Little Indians" for the Know Better Do Better Project. http:...