Here's To You (feat. Joan Baez)

The song 'Here's To You' is a poignant tribute to Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti, two Italian-American anarchists who were controversially executed in 1927. The lyrics, performed by Joan Baez with music composed by Ennio Morricone, are simple yet powerful, repeating a salute to the men's memory and acknowledging their final moments as a form of triumph, despite the agony they faced. The song was originally part of the soundtrack for the 1971 film 'Sacco e Vanzetti', directed by Giuliano Montaldo, which tells the story of their trial and execution.

The repeated lines serve as a haunting reminder of the miscarriage of justice that many believe Sacco and Vanzetti experienced. The words 'Rest forever here in our hearts' suggest that their legacy will not be forgotten, and the 'last and final moment is yours' implies that in their death, they have achieved a kind of victory, perhaps in becoming martyrs for their cause or in exposing the flaws of the justice system. The song's refrain 'That agony is your triumph' could be interpreted as a message that their suffering has not been in vain and that it serves as a catalyst for change or as a rallying cry for those who continue to fight against injustice.

Ennio Morricone's composition, paired with Joan Baez's clear and emotive vocals, creates a stirring and reflective piece that transcends its historical context. The song has been adopted by various movements as an anthem for human rights and justice, demonstrating the enduring relevance of its message. 'Here's To You' is not just a commemoration of two individuals; it is a broader commentary on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression.