Playing For Change is more than just a music project; it’s a worldwide movement aimed at bringing people together through the universal language of music. Founded on the belief that music has the power to break down barriers and promote peace, Playing For Change connects musicians from all over the globe, creating a powerful fusion of voices and styles that transcend language and culture. With viral videos, a committed non-profit arm, and a global reach, Playing For Change continues to inspire audiences everywhere. Here are over ten fascinating facts about Playing For Change and its impact around the world.
1. Playing For Change Started as a Small Documentary Project
Playing For Change began as a small documentary project in 2002, started by filmmakers Mark Johnson and Whitney Kroenke. The original idea was to capture street musicians from different parts of the world and highlight how music could unite people from different backgrounds. They started by recording musicians in locations such as Los Angeles and New Orleans, and soon expanded globally, capturing music that transcended cultural and geographical divides.
2. “Stand By Me” Video Went Viral and Put Playing For Change on the Map
In 2009, Playing For Change released its first viral hit, a cover of Ben E. King’s classic “Stand By Me.” This video featured musicians from around the world performing parts of the song, all compiled into a seamless global collaboration. The video became an internet sensation, with millions of views on YouTube, and helped the project gain worldwide recognition. Today, it has over 180 million views, making it one of the most iconic global music collaborations of all time.
3. The Playing For Change Foundation Was Created to Support Music Education
After seeing the impact of the music videos, the founders created the Playing For Change Foundation in 2007, a non-profit organization dedicated to building music and arts programs for children in underserved communities worldwide. The foundation builds and funds music schools in locations like Mali, South Africa, Nepal, and Argentina, bringing music education to places where it might not otherwise be accessible. The foundation’s goal is to use music education as a tool for empowerment and social change.
4. Playing For Change Has Collaborated with Legendary Musicians
Playing For Change has worked with some of the most renowned musicians in the world, including Keith Richards, Bono, Ringo Starr, and Ziggy Marley. These artists contribute their voices and talents to Playing For Change’s mission, appearing in video collaborations or live performances. Their involvement has helped draw attention to the movement, showcasing how music can unite superstars and unknown artists in a shared message of peace.
5. Playing For Change Has Produced Over 400 Music Videos
Playing For Change has created a massive library of music videos that highlight musicians from different corners of the world. These videos feature various genres and styles, from reggae and blues to folk and traditional music, reflecting the incredible diversity of global music. Each video is meticulously produced, with sound engineers and videographers traveling to remote locations to capture authentic performances, which are then combined to create harmonious, cross-cultural musical arrangements.
6. A Global Movement with Chapters Worldwide
Playing For Change has become a true global movement, with chapters and volunteer groups worldwide that organize events, raise funds, and spread the message of peace through music. These chapters, located in cities from New York to Johannesburg, bring together people who believe in the power of music to make a difference. Playing For Change Day, an annual event held in September, sees these chapters host live concerts and fundraising events to support the foundation’s programs.
7. Playing For Change Day: A Worldwide Celebration
Playing For Change Day, celebrated each September, is a global event that brings together musicians, supporters, and communities to raise awareness and funds for music education. On this day, concerts and music events are held in hundreds of cities, with participants and musicians from various countries joining forces to perform. The funds raised on Playing For Change Day go directly to supporting music education programs in underserved communities, making it a powerful day of celebration and impact.
8. Their Albums Feature Artists from Every Corner of the Globe
Playing For Change has released several albums that feature collaborations between global artists, including Songs Around the World, PFC2, and Listen to the Music. These albums combine the talents of musicians from dozens of countries, creating a rich tapestry of sounds that blend seamlessly, despite differences in language or style. The music on these albums covers classic hits and original compositions, all of which are designed to celebrate diversity and promote unity.
9. Focus on Authentic Cultural Representation
Playing For Change makes a conscious effort to authentically represent the cultures they showcase, valuing traditional instruments, native languages, and local music styles. By visiting artists in their home countries and recording in their native settings, Playing For Change allows each artist’s unique voice to shine through. This dedication to authenticity has earned the project respect from musicians worldwide and strengthened its impact as a cultural bridge.
10. The “Listen to the Music” Project Brings New Life to Classic Songs
Playing For Change’s Listen to the Music series is a collection of videos where musicians from around the world cover classic songs. Each song is given a fresh arrangement that incorporates international styles and instruments, like sitars, djembe drums, and charangos, creating a new experience for the listener. The Listen to the Music series has been praised for highlighting the universal nature of music and showing how classic songs can resonate across different cultures and generations.
11. Playing For Change Supports Local Economies and Artists
The project not only brings attention to local artists but also provides them with a platform that can open doors to greater recognition and economic support. Many musicians featured by Playing For Change have seen an increase in performance opportunities and income, thanks to the exposure from the videos. Additionally, the foundation’s music schools often employ local teachers and staff, helping to strengthen communities from within.
12. A Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
Playing For Change places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. Many of the foundation’s music schools are built with sustainable practices in mind, using local materials and renewable energy sources. By incorporating sustainability into their building projects and community programs, Playing For Change demonstrates their commitment to making a positive impact on the planet alongside their mission of spreading peace through music.
13. Playing For Change Offers Virtual Concerts and Music Lessons
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Playing For Change adapted by offering virtual concerts and online music lessons. These virtual events allowed the foundation to continue raising funds while providing supporters with live music experiences from the safety of their homes. Online lessons and virtual concerts also expanded the reach of Playing For Change, bringing people from even more countries into the fold and promoting music as a way to connect during difficult times.
14. A Vision of Music as a Universal Language
Playing For Change operates under the belief that music is a universal language capable of uniting people across divides. Whether it’s through jazz in New Orleans, reggae in Jamaica, or traditional Indian music, Playing For Change highlights how melodies and rhythms can transcend language barriers and cultural differences. This vision has not only connected artists worldwide but has also created a platform that fosters understanding and peace.
15. A Lasting Legacy and Growing Global Impact
Since its inception, Playing For Change has grown into one of the most influential music movements worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy in the communities it serves. With hundreds of videos, thousands of musicians, and millions of fans, the impact of Playing For Change extends far beyond music. It’s a movement that has inspired a new generation to believe in the power of music as a force for good and has brought hope to communities around the world.
Conclusion
Playing For Change is more than a project or a foundation—it’s a living testament to the unifying power of music. From its viral videos to its music schools, Playing For Change has created a bridge that connects cultures, supports local artists, and brings communities together under a shared vision of peace. In a world filled with divisions, Playing For Change reminds us that music can be a source of connection, resilience, and hope. This movement, which started as a small documentary, has transformed into a global phenomenon that continues to inspire, unite, and empower people across the world, one song at a time.
