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Q&A: Chicago artist Validity aims to mend political rifts with 'Indivisible' project

Wesley McKinney, a Chicago artist by way of Peoria, made a gutsy move this year: tying a new concept album to the roiling and contentious world of politics. Recognizing the divisions being sown over party ideologies, he took a stab at trying to bridge the gaps and repair some of the rifts with his “Indivisible” concept album.

With Validity, McKinney harnesses vocals that sound fresh off a theatrical stage and catchy songwriting built around various genres to release a new song every month (many with video loops, as well) since August, chronicling a story about a political couple with secrets to hide. The “Indivisible” project, which will continue through January 2021, is his attempt to spotlight the universality of some of our problems and speak to finding common ground. “The whole goal is to remember we are human and can unite against hate,” he said.

McKinney answered a few questions for us about this week's release — “Nothing Can Stop Us Now” — and the project in general.