IF NOT YOU
by Maryellen McCabe

Where there is no vision a people perish.
Where there are no dreams to cherish a nation dies.
Where are the leaders like Jefferson?
Where are the heroes and heroines?
Where are the people who see the work to be done and have inspiration?

CHORUS
If not you, who will be the answer.
If not you, who will heal the cancer.
If not you . . . who?

Who will tell the children that they can fly?
Who will play the catcher in the rye?
Where are the teachers who ask the reasons why?
In the schools the minds all die.

CHORUS
Who will hear the cries of the third world poor?
Who will stop the holocaust of a nuclear war?
Where are the ladies to hold Athena's sword
Like Joan of Arc with Justice?
If not you, who will be the answer.
If not you, who will heal the cancer. If not you . . . who?

If Not You is from Maryellen McCabe's show Heroes and Heroines. Singer and songwriter, Maryellen McCabe creates a mythical New Age Rock 'n' Roll that speaks of universal love, spiritual awareness, service to others, and social responsibility. Her music work has earned grants from GTE, The Francis Dewing Foundation, and Inmark Computer Corporation. As a student she received the University of Texas Outstanding Performer Award.

Over the past several years Maryellen McCabe has brought to the New York City metropolitan area a multi-media music and slide show called Heroes and Heroines. In her program she sings her original songs against a background of slides depicting the achievements of men and women who have devoted their lives to serving the common good. Commenting on her program, Governor Cuomo has said: "Heroes and Heroines is helping to promote a better understanding of integrity, courage, and service. I salute Maryellen McCabe for her creativity and vision."

Ms. McCabe has performed in New York City clubs and festivals for over a decade. Her music video Mother Theresa has been featured on VH1's New Vision Show. Jon Kalish of National Public Radio commented: "Maryellen McCabe's songwriting is unique, important, and exceptional." Patti Rose, contributing journalist to Rockbill and Musician Magazine, has called her triple octave voice "intense, inspired, and powerful." Maryellen McCabe, 639 North Broadway, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY 10706. Phone (914) 478-0193.

Copyright © 1996. The Light Party.