Bergen County Rapper Records Anti-Blue Law Song

A local hip-hop artist has recorded a new song promoting a repeal of Bergen County's Blue Laws.

Rob Carney, who grew up in Palisades Park and Ridgefield and has been rapping for 8 or 9 years, said he was inspired to write the song after learning about Modernize Bergen County and becoming friendly with Mitchell Horn, one of the group's members. The group has been working to get a referendum about the Blue Laws in the ballot in November and recently announced they had the required number of signatures for the initiative.

In the song, "Get Up (Blue Laws)," Carney points to those who only have Sunday to shop and struggling small businesses as examples of why he believes the law should be changed.

"It's un-American," Carney told Patch. "Why should the government dictate whether or not we open retail stores on a Sunday?"

County residents on both sides of the issue have debated whether or not the potential economic benefits would outweigh the value of having a day each week with less traffic and other activity. 

Carney said that he hoped the song would inspire younger voters, who traditionally turn up to the polls in low numbers, to participate in this year's ballot.

"I have a perspective that's different from your typical political viewpoint," he said.

You can hear more of Carney's music on his website and listen to "Get Up (Blue Laws)" above.