I'm one of those people that keeps an unofficial list of songs that can inspire and pick me up - even on the most trying, difficult days. A new addition to my list is the heartfelt, upbeat and empowering song, "Don't Give Up," from Canadian singer-songwriter Maggie Szabo, the first single from her forthcoming Worthy EP. While the thoughtful and encouraging lyrics to this inspirational anthem might apply to a variety of challenging life events, it is dedicated to transgender youth around the world who live in fear and suffer from rejection and exclusion.
Maggie co-wrote and recorded "Don't Give Up" with Chaz Mason and Stefan Lit (One Direction), who also produced the track. Now living in Los Angeles and using her music to help conquer social injustice, Maggie adds her voice to causes supporting social justice and equality. "People are people, love is love. Society needs to stand up," professes Szabo. "I can't stand by and watch millions of transgender youth live in fear for their safety, outcast from their homes and marginalized by society simply because they are struggling to understand their gender identity. I want to stand with them."
"When your back’s against the wall | 'Cuz you feel you've lost it all
There’s nowhere left to turn and no one left to call
There is someone just like you | Who feels the same way too
Why would you surrender?
Don't give up on love"
Equally as impressive is the song's accompanying music video, produced and and directed by BlackTongue, which follows a girl who is struggling with her gender identity and the pressures of conformity in high school. A portion of the proceeds from Maggie's music video will be donated to the Ali Forney Center, whose mission is to protect LGBTQ youths from the harms of homelessness and empower them with the tools needed to live independently.
MAGGIE SZABO "Don't Give Up" (Official Music Video)
For more information about Maggie Szabo, visit her official website, follow her on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube), and listen to her music on Spotify, SoundCloud, and other music streaming channels.