The Playing for Change phenomenon was taken to the road and the result is the live DVD and CD set titled Playing for Change Live recorded during the highly successful 2009 international tour. The touring band was put together by Mark Johnson, featuring musicians from various countries (Netherlands, United States, Congo, Zimbabwe, Ghana, South Africa), including Clarence Bekker (lead vocals), Grandpa Elliott (lead vocals, harmonica), Ruth “Titi” Tsira (lead vocals), Mermans Kenkosenki (lead vocals, congas), Louis Mhlanga (electric guitar), Jason Tamba (backup vocals, acoustic guitar), Ruben Rodriguez (backup vocals, bass), Peter Bunetta (drum kit), Mohammed Alidu (talking drum, djembe), and Steve Molitz (keyboards).
The song set is a collection of American roots, African and Jamaican music, including blues, Gospel, reggae and Afropop. The album includes guest performances by renowned blues musician Keb Mo and stars Ziggy Marley and Toots Hibbert. The DVD contains bonus material including a performance by the increasingly popular desert blues band Tinariwen.
The Playing For Change Foundation (PFCF) is dedicated to connecting the world through music by providing resources to musicians and their communities around the world. These resources include, but not limited to facilities, supplies, and educational programs.
Playing for Change Live is one of the most genuinely satisfying works of African-derived roots music released in recent months.
Buy the recordings: Playing for Change Live, Songs Around The World
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
