Folk music has always carried the weight of human stories, and with their latest track “Se Llama Juanita,
New Hampshire duo Dan & Faith channel that tradition into something remarkably moving. Rather than delivering a political anthem, they choose the quieter power of empathy, inviting listeners to step into the shoes of a young girl seeking asylum at the U.S. border.
On their album Who We Are, Dan & Faith Senie – a married pair known for their introspective “dream-inspired folk” deliver one of their most poignant songs to date. “Se Llama Juanita,” translated as “Her Name is Juanita,” doesn’t shout; it listens. The lyrics trace the emotional journey of a child crossing borders, not with slogans or speeches, but with compassion and intimate storytelling.
Musically, the song is understated but emotionally rich. Dan’s acoustic guitar and Faith’s bass form a delicate framework for their signature close harmonies, bringing the listener closer, almost as if overhearing a conversation rather than attending a performance. It’s this sense of closeness that makes the makes the narrative land so deeply.
The care behind the track goes far beyond the songwriting. The duo brought on folk veteran Joe Jencks as producer, with engineering by Mark Dann and Grammy-winner Charlie Pilzer handling mastering, demonstrating a deep commitment to letting the song’s message resonate with clarity and warmth.
Despite traveling the country in a camper filled with instruments, Dan & Faith deliver work that feels anything but transient. “Se Llama Juanita” stands as a quietly powerful reminder that music can cut through noise not by amplifying the volume, but by sharpening the focus.
Their growing recognition, including a spot in the Top 50 on the Folk DJ radio charts, is no surprise. With each performance in living rooms, coffeehouses, and festival stages across North America, they’ve cultivated a reputation for authenticity and care.
What sets “Se Llama Juanita” apart is its refusal to reduce the immigration debate to sides or slogans. Instead, Dan & Faith choose to honor the story of one girl, offering listeners a way to connect not through argument, but through shared humanity. In a moment where so much art chases outrage, their quiet voice is a welcome change.
Listen to “Se Llama Juanita” now on Spotify.
