NEW YORK (Billboard) -- With new verses written by Seeger and Appleseed Recordings founder Jim Musselman, the track was recorded with additional vocals by modern day compatriots Steve Earle, Ani DiFranco, and Billy Bragg, and now includes the line, "The great part of America is that you have to right to speak your mind."

"I felt that the song and what Pete says in it have an important message during this time of backlash against entertainers like Tim Robbins and the Dixie Chicks who have simply expressed their views, which is what is needed in a democracy," Musselman said in a statement. "Pete is someone who has always stood up for the First Amendment, going back to the McCarthy era, when he faced a jail term rather than give up his constitutional rights."

The updated version of "Bring Them Home" will appear on the two-disc "Seeds: The Songs of Pete Seeger, Volume 3," due in August via Appleseed. The first disc will feature 12 more songs recorded by the artist over the past three years, including "The Dove," the post-9/11 song "Tell It to Doctor King," and "Flowers of Peace," the latter sung by Anne Hills with Seeger.

The second "Seeds" disc will be made up of 15 new recordings of songs written or associated with Seeger. Among those contributing that disc are Janis Ian, Tom Paxton, and Holly Near.

Seeger -- who on Saturday will celebrate his 84th birthday -- performed a version of "Over the Rainbow" for thousands of demonstrators at a New York peace rally in February.

"...it [has] an important message during this time of backlash against entertainers like Tim Robbins and the Dixie Chicks who have simply expressed their views..." That backlash is just as covered by the First Amendment as their protests. It works both ways.

Absolutely Cryxan, the First Amendment works both ways...something that all too many people forget.

I've always enjoyed music from the 1960s, and lately upon listening to a lot if it, it seems to be screaming the sort of message that people listen to today.
It's therefore excellent that Seeger is making this recording. The fact that he got so many other big names in on this project as well assures that many people will listen to the song. Hopefully they'll understand it. Hopefully nobody will be shunned.
I'm anxious to hear this, and that 9-11 song as well.

My hope is before Pete goes off to the other side people out there understand what a damn good musician and songwriter/dreamer the guy really is.

i live my life by "little boxes". its my anthem