I’ve Seen Them (single)

by Roger Loves Betty - Featuring Richard Green

supported by

	/

Streaming + Download

Includes unlimited streaming via the free Bandcamp app, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more.

Purchasable with gift card

$1 AUD or more

about

This song was written and recorded about 10 years ago. An old mate, David Field had a lovely chord progression which I put words and a melody to. Tim and I were in Roger Loves Betty mode at the time and were doing a lot of jamming with friends. One day Dave brought Richard Green over for a jam at our place in Fairy Meadow NSW.

I was so sorry to hear of Richard's death in July 2021
Richard was a proud Dharug man, a brilliant actor, singer, songwriter and a teacher of aboriginal language.

Richard is singing with me here. His monologue in language is heartbreaking. I feel so honoured to have recorded this with him. Tim Oxley provided the backing instrumentation, I’m playing acoustic guitar and singing and Dave played mandolin.

We’ve been sitting on this song for a long time. It feels right to share it now. It’s one way in which we can help.
The pain of first nations people and the shame of the rest of us has been suppressed, twisted, ignored and denied for far too long. We must share, connect and acknowledge the deep suffering of the original people of this beautiful country. Systemic racism has to end. All hands on deck.

All money raised by this song will be given to Grandmothers Against Removals. GMAR has become a national network for families who have been directly affected by child removals. Across the country, they host rallies, marches and even healing camps in order to reduce the high numbers of aboriginal children removed from both their immediate and extended families. Please check out the GMAR facebook page to find out more about them and give generously if you are in a position to do so.

Thanks, love to all,
Jodi

lyrics

I heard the birds talking about a new face, a new race
I heard the trees whispering of danger in a stranger
My little brother he came to me
Said there’s something you got to see
I’ve seen them
They’re carrying many things
They’re wearing golden rings
I’ve seen them

Oh I’ve seen them, I’ve seen them

Out on the ocean
In the morning light
They’re crossing the meadows
Their faces are long and bright
They’re riding on strange horses
I don’t know what it will mean

Oh oh oh oh I’ve seen them, I’ve seen them

credits

released June 5, 2020
Written by Jodi Phillis and David Field
Sung by Jodi Phillis and Richard Green
Guitar by Jodi
Drums, strings, piano, mixed by Tim Oxley
Mandolin by David Field

license

about

Jodi Phillis Wollongong, Australia

Australian singer, songwriter, composer and artist, known for her work with The Clouds, solo albums and albums with The Dearhunters, Roger Loves Betty and The Glamma Rays.

Recommendations

contact / help

Contact Jodi Phillis

Streaming and
Download help

Shipping and returns

Redeem code

Report this track or account

Jodi Phillis recommends:

We Need to Be Free
by Jodi Phillis

My new album, produced by Damien Lane is out now on Cheersquad! Jodi Phillis
go to album

If you like I’ve Seen Them (single), you may also like:

Reverse Light Years
by EVEN

supported by 4 fans who also own “I’ve Seen Them (single)”

one of the best tracks to kick off an album. can't get enough of this song!! thegoudone
go to album
No Weapon But Love
by Icecream Hands

supported by 4 fans who also own “I’ve Seen Them (single)”

Such a joyful collection of songs. Nothing like quintessential Melbourne alternative rock to lift the spirits. Listening during yet another lockdown transports me to a band room in my favourite pub. Thanks for the music lads- looking forward to seeing you for real when we get outta here. Jacqui L
go to album
Inner Coasts
by SUNDAYS

A new record from Danish outfit SUNDAYS is replete with melodic hooks and punchy vocals. Bandcamp New & Notable Apr 8, 2021
go to album
Feel The Ground You Walk Upon
by Lewis McLaughlin

Old-fashioned fiddles harmonize with rippling synths on the Scottish singer-songwriter's latest collection of original folk songs. Bandcamp New & Notable Mar 30, 2022
go to album
Phototherapy EP
by Fahim Rahman

A collection of twinkling bedroom folk-pop demos from Fahim Rahman that arcs from hushed intimacy to sweeping cinematic emotionality. Bandcamp New & Notable Apr 6, 2021
go to album