Johnnie Walker remakes famous US folk song

Diageo-owned blended Scotch Johnnie Walker has joined forces with soul band Chicano Batman to re-release an American folk song as part of the brand’s Keep Walking America campaign.

Los Angeles-based Chicano Batman in a music video for Johnnie Walker

Together they have re-recorded Woody Guthrie’s anthem ‘This Land Is Your Land’, a song first referenced by Johnnie Walker as spoken word during its TV campaign launch in November 2016.

To tie in with the campaign message of “inspiring cultural progress and celebrating America’s rich diversity”, the music video introduces viewers to Chicano Batman’s local community, showcasing “the many cultures that have influenced the band”.

“Having the opportunity to partner with Johnnie Walker to create our own rendition of such an iconic American song is an honour and an incredible milestone in our career,” said Chicano Batman frontman Bardo Martinez.

“This song’s message has never been more timely, and we hope our version continues to inspire people to keep walking towards their dreams and to celebrate each other.”

The four-piece band, known for blending Brazilian Tropicalia with early ’70s psychedelic soul and romantic pop, were heavily influenced by their upbringing in a Latino community in the US.

Stephanie Jacoby, vice president of Johnnie Walker North America, said: “We are extremely excited to partner with such talented and passionate musicians. ‘This Land Is Your Land’ has inspired positive change for more than 70 years and Chicano Batman’s interpretation of the song will be equally powerful and relevant for generations to come.”

Chicano Batman follows in the footsteps of actors Kevin Dillon and Wilmer Valderrama, who both featured in videos for the Keep Walking America campaign.

View the ‘This Land Is Your Land’ video below.