Will was lost in the fog of schizophrenia when we went to war in Iraq in 2003 after the trauma and tragedy of 9/11.
As he re-emerged beginning in 2004 and learned more about what he’d missed, he decided to oppose the war in Iraq.
Performing at protests and marches, he started writing a number of related songs.
Urged not to record political songs (too divisive among fans), he instead heeded James McMurtry’s comments about an artist’s ethical obligations, releasing Wayward Lady in 2008.
Beyond the high command,
There’s a sadness in the land.
Mercy find the families
Of our soldiers overseas.
Bring ‘em home
Bring ‘em home
Before good souls have flown.
A soldier’s love is too alone —
Bring ‘em home
Mothers dear,
Fathers strong,
Children not where they belong,
Brothers brave,
Sisters fine —
Restore the lives
They left behind.
Bring ‘em home
Bring ‘em home
Before good souls have flown.
A soldier’s love is too alone —
Bring ‘em home
We’re lovers and friends
Of the women and men
In a war that must end
Let the conclusion begin.
Lord, we pray
Now for peace
And our sorrow’s release.
Lead our leaders
To decide
No more fighting from our side.
Bring ‘em home
Bring ‘em home
Before good souls have flown.
A soldier’s love is too alone —
Bring ‘em home
Repeat chorus
Living room performance with Richard Bowden
in support of the 2009 Million Musician March against the Iraq War
Buller's back porch 