A track written by a Kenilworth songwriter during the first national lockdown has remained relevant as residents find themselves told to stay at home once again

Chris Johnson, who moved to Kenilworth from Leamington shortly before the first lockdown in 2020, wrote the song 'All in this Together' inspired by the challenges the community and individuals were having to face.

The track was originally recorded with his brother and musical collaborator, Nick Johnson.

Speaking to Kenilworth Nub News Chris said: "The song reflects on some of the changes to everyday life that were experienced that spring and summer, whilst maintaining a positive and supportive message of unity and community which remains as relevant during this third national lockdown as it did at the time of writing.

"I was out with the family and the dogs (walking in Abbey Fields, around the castle and through the common), seeing everyone doing the same, taking advantage of the weather for their restricted permitted outdoor exercise, which was in stark contrast to how quiet the commercial areas of the town were, with shops and hospitality businesses being closed.

"There seemed to be a spirit of community through adversity, which is what you'd hope for in a town like Kenilworth."

The brothers decided to collaborate on the track to try and encapsulate the mood of those around them.

"The phrase, 'all in this together' was ringing true when I was talking to family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. Despite its use by politicians often being received with understandable cynicism and scepticism, I felt it genuinely captured the spirit of the time."

Chris and Nick have been collaborating since 2015.

That year, they were featured as an 'Artist of the Week' on BBC Introducing Hereford & Worcester and were invited to record a live session for them. Later that year they were placed at number six in BBC Introducing's Andrew Marston's Top 10 of 2015/Hot For 2016 list.

The brothers have continued to receive air time on BBC Introducing Coventry & Warwickshire, including All In This Together which was broadcast in May last year.

Chris has been writing, performing and recording for 25 years, as a solo artist as well as in a number of bands. In 2002 he formed KTO, a covers band which were performing regularly until all gigs were cancelled last March.

To combat the lack of live music in 2020 Chris began to reach his audiences virtually.

"At the end of April last year I began playing regular Facebook Live gigs on a Thursday evening which evolved into themed request shows.

"These shows have been a fantastic way to connect with my family, friends and those who follow what I do musically. Personally, they have been a great outlet for me."

He was able to broadcast his 31st such show on New Year's Eve.

All in this together has indeed found relevance once again as the nation finds itself in lockdown for a third time. Chris said the lines "It's a quiet town since the shops closed down, but then clapping is heard from our doors" are particularly relevant once more as 'Clap for Heroes' is set to return again in 2021.

All In This Together can be found on Chris' SoundCloud account by following this link.

More work by Chris and Nick can be found on their SoundCloud playlist and by following them on Facebook.

You can keep up to date with Chris' music by looking at his website, and following him on Facebook.