“I will never forget the feeling I had the first time I heard traditional Congolese music while visiting the capital of Kinshasa. The poorest people with broken instruments playing the most upbeat and positive music I have ever heard. ‘Africa Mokili Mobimba’ is a famous song from the Congo and serves as an anthem to unify Africa. We decided to use this song to connect those who were separated generations ago by slavery and reunite them through their music. Our journey began in Kinshasa, Congo and then the PFC crew and I drove out to the village of Lukala. We received permission to record and film in the village and we were told that the local voodoo community would protect us. We then traveled through the Caribbean to the island of Anguilla and then Cuba before making our way to Congo Square in New Orleans to record and film the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Music is the best tool to reunite hearts, souls, and minds all around the world because it lifts us up to a place where we all feel connected.” – Mark Johnson, PFC co-founder
Bob Marley’s 77th Anniversary: Celebrating the Life of a Legend
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The mystical call of the earth surrounds us, and Bob Marley’s teachings about love, freedom, and peace inspire us to keep his legacy alive. “There’s a natural mystic blowing through the air” Every year, Playing For Change has been inspired to create peace through music by following Bob Marley’s messages about love, peace and music, […]
Jazz, Soul, Rhythm, and Blues: The Legacy of Diversity
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The beauty of cultural diversity is represented in our Songs Around The World in many ways. Every time we record a new song, each musician provides their own representation of diversity reflected in their musical style, influences, and backgrounds. When we listen to different music genres, not only do we open our minds and […]