United Health (song)
| "United Health" | |
|---|---|
| Single by Jesse Welles | |
| Released | December 11, 2024 |
| Recorded | 2024 |
| Genre | Folk, protest song |
| Length | 2:39 |
| Label | Independent |
| Songwriter(s) | Jesse Welles |
| Producer(s) | Jesse Welles |
"United Health" is a protest song by American folk singer-songwriter Jesse Welles, released on December 11, 2024. The song critiques the practices of the U.S. healthcare industry, particularly targeting UnitedHealthcare, in the wake of the assassination of its CEO, Brian Thompson. The song garnered viral attention across social media platforms.[1]
Background
The song was released shortly after the death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was fatally shot on December 4, 2024. The incident sparked widespread discussions about the U.S. healthcare system. Welles, known for his topical songwriting, addressed these issues in "United Health," highlighting the perceived commodification of healthcare and the challenges faced by patients.[2]
Composition and lyrics
The lyrics deliver a scathing critique of the American healthcare industry, with the chorus reading: "There ain't no you in United Health, there ain't no me in the company, there ain't no us in the private trust, there's hardly humans in humanity."[3]
Reception
Upon release, "United Health" quickly gained traction online, amassing millions of views on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Critics praised Welles for his commentary. Vulture described the song as "a mix of old-fashioned folkie signifiers and trending-topic populism," noting its impact on audiences seeking music that reflected current societal issues.[4] Joseph Hudak of Rolling Stone wrote that the song had "a melody reminiscent of John Prine's 'Fish and Whistle'".[3]
Music video
Jesse Welles released a video of himself performing the song on his YouTube channel.[5]
References
- ^ "Who is Jesse Welles? Folk singer's protest song against UnitedHealthcare wins over the internet". Sportskeeda. December 16, 2024. Retrieved April 16, 2025.
- ^ "Luigi Mangione and the Making of a Modern Antihero". The New Yorker. December 20, 2024. Retrieved April 16, 2025.
- ^ a b Hudak, Joseph (December 12, 2024). "Jesse Welles Eviscerates UnitedHealthcare in New Protest Song". Rolling Stone. Retrieved June 26, 2025.
- ^ "Will the Revolution Start at a Jesse Welles Concert?". Vulture. February 26, 2025. Retrieved April 16, 2025.
- ^ "United Health - YouTube". YouTube. Retrieved April 16, 2025.