The “Other Side” of Michael Fairman

The music video for Michael Fairman’s “Other Side” sheds light on some of the biggest social issues of 2020 including the Covid-19 pandemic, the call to stomp out systemic racism, domestic violence, LGBTQ equality, and the rights of the disabled.   In it, a homeless man is laying on the street with the simple yet heartbreaking message, “I used to be you” … Black Lives Matter protesters march peacefully but assertively … the rainbow flag waves triumphantly … a soldier, injured in battle, is picked up by servicemen and carried to safety while Michael Fairman sings, “It’s a war I can’t lose”.

“We are at a critical time,” Michael Fairman contends, “and it was important to me that the video depict these struggles in a way that catches viewer’s attention, yet is empathetic and hopeful in its message.”

“Days often seem darkest before the dawn,” Michael continues from his home in Los Angeles.  “In my own life, I have overcome tremendous challenges: Childhood bullying, multiple surgeries due to a spinal condition and chronic pain that I still struggle with today, the sudden loss of loved ones, discrimination, and more. I’ve been knocked down many times but through it all, I’ve somehow managed to get back up and fight on.”

He shot the video earlier this summer, in Los Angeles, with a skeletal crew consisting of one cameraman, one lighting tech and Michael.   Then, in July, when Los Angeles finally relaxed some of its restrictions, he and a cameraman were able to add the exterior footage shot in downtown LA.   Everyone followed strict CDC protocols, wearing facial masks and washing hands constantly.

Michael co-wrote “Other Side” with producer and engineer, Kyle Mangels, and this marks their third collaboration together.

Michael Fairman’s “Other Side” is being distributed independently and is available on Apple Music, Spotify and all major music digital platforms.  Follow Michael Fairman on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and his YouTube Channel.