Kim Gordon’s New Protest Song “Bye Bye 25!” Takes Aim at Trump Administration

Introduction

Renowned musician Kim Gordon has transformed her lead single “Bye Bye” from her upcoming album, The Collective, into a powerful protest anthem. Titled “Bye Bye 25!”, the reworked version critiques the policies of President Donald J. Trump and addresses the culture of censorship surrounding specific vocabulary. This timely release coincides with the upcoming “No Kings” protests scheduled for June 14, aimed at raising awareness for numerous pressing issues.

New Musical Direction

The revamped track features lyrics that have been derived from terms the Trump administration has reportedly attempted to suppress. Gordon explained, "When I was thinking of lyric ideas, it occurred to me to use words taken from a site that had all the words that Trump has essentially banned." This includes important terms like “female,” “climate change,” "Hispanic,” and “immigrants.” By doing this, Gordon highlights the implications of such censorship on public discourse and research.

Collaboration and Context

Producer Justin Raisen played a crucial role in the song’s transformation, suggesting the reworking of “Bye Bye” at the song’s conclusion. Gordon’s decision to leverage these “banned” words underscores her critique of what she perceives as an attempt to “cancel culture” by the current administration. This reimagined version serves as a poignant reflection of the political climate and raises questions about freedom of expression.

Cultural Impact and Fundraising Efforts

In a significant show of solidarity, proceeds from the sales of “Bye Bye 25!” along with promotional merchandise will be donated to Noise for Now, a nonprofit organization advocating for reproductive rights. This initiative resonates with a broader movement, as it ties musical expression to critical social issues.

The timing of the song’s release, just ahead of the “No Kings” protests, amplifies its potential impact. As activists prepare to take to the streets, Gordon’s anthem harnesses the energy of the moment, merging art with activism in a way that encourages public participation and engagement.

Recognition and Acclaim

Both "Bye Bye" and The Collective have garnered accolades, including Grammy nominations at the 2025 ceremony. Notably, this marks Gordon’s first recognition by the Grammys, a milestone for the artist who had not previously received such commendation during her illustrious career with Sonic Youth or as a solo musician. The album was also celebrated in various top album lists, indicating its resonance within the music community and beyond.

Conclusion

Kim Gordon’s “Bye Bye 25!” exemplifies the power of music as a form of protest. By voicing dissent against government policies through art, she highlights the essential role musicians can play in shaping societal conversations. As the song continues to gain traction and aligns with significant activism, it not only reinforces Gordon’s position in the music industry but also serves as a rallying cry for those advocating for social change. The crossroads of art and activism have never been more vital, and Gordon’s work exemplifies this dynamic in contemporary culture.

For those interested in experiencing “Bye Bye 25!”, the music can be streamed here.