Amanda Shires and Jason Isbell Sing of Unconditional Love in ‘The Problem’

The present state of our world — among other concerns, there’s a contentious presidential election, a potential Supreme Court appointment, protests in pursuit of racial justice and a global pandemic — offers precious little certainty. Singer, songwriter and fiddler par excellence Amanda Shires has released a new single about being able to have faith in another person under trying circumstances while speaking directly to the continuing struggle for women to have safe access to abortions.

Shires has released a new single called “The Problem,” a gently rocking duet with husband Jason Isbell. The song follows a couple as they try to make a decision about whether or not to terminate a pregnancy they’re not ready for — something made infinitely more difficult by a heap of social pressures and uncertainty about whether state laws allow a woman to make a choice about what’s going on in her own body. The refrain “I’m on your side,” sung in interlocking melodies by Shires and Isbell, is one of the few things that both members of the couple in the piece can rely on.

You can stream the song above and stream or download from your service of choice via this handy link. There’s also some new related merch on Shires’ website. Proceeds derived from the single (which was recorded in part at RCA Studio A with a band that includes Sheryl Crow on bass) will go to the Yellowhammer Fund. The Alabama-based nonprofit works on behalf of women’s reproductive rights, with tasks ranging from providing clear and accurate information about clinics that provide abortion services in the state to advocating for policy changes.

“This song is about unconditionally supporting someone you love,” says Shires in an Instagram post. “This is a love song. Let’s be there for each other.”