Acclaimed singer-songwriter Kate McDonnell is set to release the stirring music video for her song “Step Right Up” in recognition of Gun Violence Awareness Month. The video will premiere on Wear Orange Day, Friday June 6,  a nationwide movement dedicated to honoring victims and survivors of gun violence. The track is featured on McDonnell’s latest album, TRAPEZE, which delves deeply into themes of hope, loss, and perseverance in contemporary American life.

“Step Right Up” is a poignant and powerful piece that highlights the devastating impact of gun violence. The video, shot in stark black-and-white, masterfully intertwines scenes of McDonnell performing live with her guitarist Jimi Woodul, alongside deeply symbolic imagery of a lone child walking deserted streets. The narrative builds to a captivating sequence on an empty playground — a chilling reflection of innocence lost and lives forever altered.

“This song screamed for a video. My sister called me after she heard the song to say the same, although I didn’t need convincing. I love that the producers from Neighborhoods Apart in Nashville Joshua Britt and Neilson Hubbard decided to produce this in black and white. It’s even more powerful than my version in my mind’s eye,” Kate shares.

“Step Right Up” profiles the lives of children tragically lost to gun violence, underscoring the need for empathy, awareness, and action. The video’s raw visual style enhances the song’s emotional intensity, drawing viewers into a space where grief, memory, and reflection collide.

The video’s release during Gun Violence Awareness Month emphasizes the role that artists can play in driving social change. By combining music with powerful visual storytelling, McDonnell aims to ignite conversations about the urgent need for stronger safety measures and violence prevention efforts.

The haunting imagery of the empty playground serves as a stark reminder of the countless young lives that have been needlessly cut short, calling viewers to reflect on the broader impact of gun violence in their communitie

McDonnell’s latest album, TRAPEZE, features 14 original songs written during a prolific three-year period. From navigating heartbreak and self-sabotage to embracing humor and finding resilience, TRAPEZE delivers bold melodies and thought-provoking lyrics.

A seasoned performer with an illustrious career, McDonnell has shared stages with legends such as Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, and Kathy Mattea. Her distinct style — playing her guitar upside-down and backwards — has become her signature, adding a unique flair to her emotionally charged performances.

About Wear Orange Weekend

Wear Orange Weekend (June 6-8)  is observed annually to raise awareness of gun violence in America. Originating in 2015 to honor the life of Hadiya Pendleton, a 15-year-old who was tragically killed by gun violence, the movement has grown into a nationwide call for safety, remembrance, and advocacy.

About Kate McDonnell

Baltimore-born and now based in upstate New York, Kate McDonnell has captivated audiences for decades with her introspective songwriting, intricate guitar work, and powerful stage presence. Her career has seen her perform at the Newport Folk Festival, Mountain Stage, and the Kennedy Center, among many others. With six solo albums to her name, McDonnell’s storytelling continues to resonate deeply with listeners across the globe.

Connect with Kate McDonnell via:

Website // Youtube // Facebook / Instagram // Spotify

Discover more about Wear Orange Day

Website