While traveling around blogosphere I keep coming across posts about Playing for Change. I kind of shrugged off the posts and didn't give them any serious attention. Honestly, had prejudged Playing for Change as another We Are the World collaboration and therefore regarded it with scepticism. As a diaspora from a 3rd world country, my perception of world aid groups has a bit of a cynical view. Certainly, all the aid donated to struggling underdeveloped countries is much needed and appreciated. However, more often than not, much of those funds land in the hands of political opportunists or political dictatorships.

That being said, my assumption was that Playing for Change's efforts probably wouldn't be any different. It just so happens I came upon yet another post about this foundation and in the post was the YouTube video for "One Love". MY FAVE! I love that song. Lil Man and Lil One love it too and we all held hands and danced and listened to it umpteen times - thanks to Lil One's "Pay Mama. Pay". That would be "Play [the music] Mama. Play" for those of you that don't speak toddler.

Exhausted after, many rounds of dancing and singing at the top of our lungs, I collapsed by the computer and began to read the post. Eventually, I was lead to the Playing for Change site via a link. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that Playing for Change started out of a grassroots effort, unlike We are the World that was orchestrated by gigantic music moguls who had as much to gain from the efforts as the causes they were supporting. Playing for Change's mission is to help elevate suffering and prejudice around the world through the element of music. They are building music schools and empowering students to create and share their music. I love it! Music has the ability to uplift the soul; transcend individuals above their circumstance and connect people through their hearts and minds. I am completely behind what this community effort is all about.

Here's a little inspiration to get you going...



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Sha~Dou!