Power of Storytelling | Harmony for Change: The Global Impact of Playing For Change

January 14, 2024


I recently stumbled across this captivating rendition of John Mayer’s Grammy-winning “Waiting on the World to Change” via Dan Rather’s newsletter.

What sets this apart is the collaboration of 100 artists from diverse countries, orchestrated by the Playing For Change Foundation. This musical masterpiece, created in partnership with COP28, the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai, serves as a powerful call to action on the urgent issue of climate change.

John Mayer’s anthem, chosen for its call to unite hearts and create a positive world, aligns with the foundation’s mission. Playing For Change aims to provide arts education to marginalized youth in 17 countries. The organization believes in the transformative power of music as a tool for social change.

Mayer, reflecting on his song in 2007, expressed the need to start a debate about our tendency to passively await change. Mark Johnson, founder of Playing For Change, reinforces the message, stating, “The time is now; to unite as a human race.” This collaboration, transcending borders, offers a reason to smile and a global call to address climate change collectively.

Beyond its social impact, music has profound effects on the soul and the brain. Playing For Change leverages this by directly impacting over 50,000 students through on-site teachers. The organization’s reach extends far beyond, touching the lives of hundreds of thousands worldwide through the universal language of music.

Playing For Change originated from a shared vision between co-founders Mark Johnson and Whitney Kroenke in 2002. Armed with a mobile recording studio and cameras, they embarked on a journey across America, resulting in the award-winning documentary, “A Cinematic Discovery of Street Music.”

Over the past 20 years, Playing For Change has evolved, producing new music collaborations, establishing music and art school foundations for children, and promoting unity through music. As they celebrate two decades of existence, it’s evident that their mission to inspire and connect the world through music is just getting started. The symphony of global impact orchestrated by Playing For Change continues to resonate, breaking down boundaries and overcoming distances between people.

Prepare to be inspired!

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