‘Paradise’, a tribute to the victims of Camp Fire 2018

Ron Coolen launches the song and video “Paradise” dedicated to the victims of the 2018 Camp Fire in California

On August 1, Ron Coolen has released his new single ‘Paradise’ and videoclip ‘Paradise’ dedicated to the victims of the 2018 Camp Fire, the worst wildfire in California’s history that completely destroyed the city of Paradise.

‘Paradise’ features intense and emotional guest contributions from KEITH ST. JOHN (Burning Rain, Kingdom Come, Montrose) and DANIËL VERBERK (Physical Graffiti). 

The Camp Fire was the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in California history. The fire started on November 8, 2018, ignited by a faulty electric transmission line. The fire originated above several communities and a an urban firestorm was formed in the densely populated foothill town of Paradise. 

The fire caused at least 85 civilian fatalities,  and it covered an area of almost 240 sq. miles, destroying18,804 structures. By January 2019, the total damage was estimated at $16.5 billion, a terrible disaster.

In Dutch media the Paradise tragedy was not more than a footnote, incredible but true. Yet the unfortunate news was picked up by Francoise Vaal. As I had just asked her to write a lyric for a new song, she dedicated the lyric to the city and the people of Paradise. The match between the song and the lyric was just perfect.

Typical things happen around this type of disasters: politicians immediately look for someone to blame, others come up with conspiracy theories, some blame alien offenders etc. Donald Trump’s visit to the site was painful as he mistakenly mentioned Paradise as “Pleasure”. Then shortly after, the whole world is back to business as usual. Except for the people in Paradise. For them this will never end, and they will carry this tragedy with them for the rest of their lives. This song is written to make sure the people in Paradise, and the tragedy they faced, will never be forgotten. I really hope this song gives the people in Paradise a little bit of comfort and moral support, to get over this, and carry on……

Keith St. John, who lives in the L.A. Area and whose house has been close to similar fires, did an incredible job singing this song. His interpretation of the lyric and the emotion he puts into it, is unheard of. I am so proud to have such an amazing singer for this song.

On most of the album tracks the guitar solo’s are played by high-speed shredders with incredible speed and melodic skills. For “Paradise” however, I knew I needed a laid-back Jimmy Page kind of classic rock solo, where off-timing is the perfect timing. Daniël Verberk was the one and only candidate for me. Daniël plays in Europe’s best Led Zeppelin Tribute band Physical Graffitiand he is more Jimmy Page than Jimmy Page himself. Daniël’s guitar solo is  touching and gives you goosebumps, and his “crying” slide guitars make it even more emotional.