Sorry Song by Kerry Fletcher

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The forced removal of so many Aboriginal children from their mothers, families and communities inflicted profound grief, suffering and loss that continues to affect them, their communities and descendants. Kerry Fletcher wrote 'Sorry Song' in 1998, on behalf of all of us whose hearts ache when we think of the pain those children and communities suffered and the pain which they still endure today.
All are welcome to download, play, teach and perform 'Sorry Song' free of charge to further the cause of reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Australia or anywhere in the world.
A new verse and chorus has been added to reflect the overwhelming community response since the federal government broke its silence by making the historic Apology in Canberra on 13th February 2008.

Click here to hear and/or download the whole song
(Permission must be obtained from the composer for any commercial use of this recording.
Any usage which is contrary to the purpose of reconciliation is forbidden.)

Click here to download the sheet music for the Melody Version
(With thanks to my friend Philip Griffin for preparing the manuscripts)

Click here to download the sheet music for the Solo Voice + SATB Choir Version
(Words and music reproduced with permission of the composer)

Click here to download the lyrics

Email contact for Kerry Fletcher; kumulbutupa@yahoo.com.au

Flickr site with Sorry Song photos

Scroll down this page to see the full lyrics.

The Sorry Song is in the Sing! 2007 song book
and companion CD (Volume 2)
available from ABC bookshops

Click here for an ABC story about the school choir which sang 'Sorry Song' at Parliament House on Apology Day.
(This link will open in a new window)

The Sorry Song is also on the CD
Reconciliation: Stories of the Heart, Sounds of the Rock
available for $15 from CARITAS phone 1800 024 413
Click on picture to order the CD on line
(This link will open in a new window)

If we can now say that we're sorry
To the people from this land

They cry, they cry,their children were stolen
They still wonder why

Sing, sing loud, break through the silence
Sing sorry across this land

We cry, we cry, their children were stolen
Now no-one knows why

Sing, sing loud, break through the silence
Sing sorry across this land

We sing with our hearts, respect for each and everyone,
Together with hope burning strong.

Sing, sing loud, we've broken the silence,
Let 'sorry' start healing our land.