Inspiration: Stand by Me from the Musicians of Playing for Change

During Jim's sermon last Sunday, he referenced a video on the Playing for Change website. Playing for Change is a multimedia movement created to inspire, connect, and bring peace to the world through music. The idea for this project arose from a common belief that music has the power to break down boundaries and overcome distances between people. No matter whether people come from different geographic, political, economic, spiritual or ideological backgrounds, music has the universal power to transcend and unite us as one human race.

Below you will find the original video that started in Santa Monica, CA with a street musician by the name of Roger Ridley performing on the 3rd Street Promenade. Mr. Ridley passed away a few months after the recording was made. That recording also included among others, Grandpa Elliott of Jackson Square fame singing and playing his harmonica.

More information and other video's can be found on the Playing for Change website.

Recently a concert was held at the Santa Monica Pier with a group of the original musicians from all around the globe including Grandpa Elliott. The concert was a rousing success with over 10,000 people in attendance. The concert was dedicated to the late Roger Ridley of the original recording. That concert prompted the Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien to have the Band perform at the end of the show on July 9, 2009 again including Grandpa Elliott.

By the way The Playing for Change Band will be at Tipitina's on July 18 at 10:00PM
Follow this link for more information, ticket prices, etc