Echoes of a Generation | Reflecting on Playing For Change's ‘Songs For Humanity’

by William Aura

As I dive into the new album, Songs For Humanity, from Playing For Change, I find myself taking a profound journey through time. I'm struck by how this collection brings together classic songs with a fresh, global twist. This truly amazing album not only revisits iconic tracks but reimagines them in a way that connects the past with the present.

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Growing up during the seismic cultural shifts of the 60s and 70s, I witnessed firsthand how music can shape our lives and society. The songs from my youth were more than just a melody floating around in your head - it was the soundtrack to a cultural revolution. It captured the essence of a generation grappling with profound change, giving voice to movements for peace, civil rights, and social justice.

As a young musician during that era, I vividly remember performing some of these very tracks with my hometown rock band. These weren’t just notes on a page - they were powerful reflections of our desire for change - a desire that felt urgent and necessary.

Back in the day, excitement of discovering new music was unparalleled. We would eagerly await the release of albums, flipping through record store bins, marveling at the cover art, and studying the lyrics on the back. There was something magical about holding a record in your hands, absorbing its art, and sharing that thrill with friends. Each listen became a shared experience, one that made the music all the more memorable.

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One of the standout tracks on Playing For Change’s Songs For Humanity is their powerful rendition of Led Zeppelin’s “When the Levee Breaks.” Originally released in 1971 by Led Zeppelin, this track reimagines a 1929 blues standard by Memphis Minnie and Kansas Joe McCoy. The song’s deep roots in Delta blues are reflected in its heavy sound and themes of hardship during natural disasters.

Led Zeppelin’s version, known for its thunderous drums and haunting harmonica, became a rock classic. Its lyrics, inspired by the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927, capture the impact of such calamities on communities.

Playing For Change’s adaptation, featuring John Paul Jones, Stephen Perkins, Susan Tedeschi, and Derek Trucks, brings a fresh, global perspective to the classic. This rendition infuses new energy while honoring its blues roots, highlighting themes of resilience and unity that resonate worldwide. The track remains a powerful reminder of our shared human experience and enduring strength

What truly sets Playing For Change apart is the process behind these songs. For over 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of being part of a journey that is as unique as it is transformative. Playing For Change is more than just a music project - it’s a global movement, one that has enriched my life in ways I can hardly put into words.

Our team travels the world, meeting and collaborating with artists and musicians from every corner of the globe. Each song is a blend of diverse voices and talents from musicians who might never have crossed paths. It's truly humbling to witness these artists come together, merging their unique cultural expressions into a unified vision. This collaborative effort is a true labor of love that can take years to bring to life.

The making of Songs For Humanity was no different. Mark Johnson, our cofounder and producer, led a dedicated team through the intricate challenges of recording these tracks across continents. His sharp ear for quality and his passion for music are evident in every take.

I’ve seen Mark bring together diverse voices from around the world, creating a sonic tapestry that truly reflects the interconnectedness of our global community. Watching this process unfold has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and it fills my heart with a deep sense of gratitude.

Throughout this journey, we’ve been fortunate to work with partners who share our vision, including Audio-Technica, whose ATH-M50x professional monitor headphones played a crucial role in capturing the richness of each performance. These headphones allowed the artists to hear every subtle detail of the music, bringing the sounds from around the world to life in a way that truly resonates with their hearts.

The logistics behind these projects are immense, the sacrifices significant, but the result is a symphony of spirit that is rare in this world. Today, where division so often overshadows unity, Songs For Humanity shows what we can achieve when we come together. Mark’s leadership hasn’t just revitalized these classic songs - it has infused them with new energy and perspective, making this project a true labor of love for everyone involved.

Take, for instance, Peter Gabriel’s “Biko” – a deeply moving song that has become a powerful anthem of the anti-apartheid movement. Written in tribute to Steve Biko, a South African activist who became a symbol of resistance against apartheid, the song captures the sorrow of his tragic death in police custody in 1977.

Black consciousness, as defined by Biko, is the awakening of self-worth in black populations. His leadership in the movement made him a threat to the regime, and his death sparked international outrage, further fueling the fight for freedom.

Playing For Change’s adaptation of “Biko,” featuring Peter Gabriel and Angélique Kidjo, breathes new life into this timeless tribute. The collaboration connects the struggles of the past with today’s challenges, reinforcing the song’s ongoing relevance. Witnessing how audiences around the world respond to this production has been profoundly moving, as the intensity and connection it brings remain as powerful as ever.

Jackson Browne’s “Doctor My Eyes,” originally released in 1972, spoke to the disillusionment of that time. The PFC version, featuring Browne, Zakir Hussain, and Giovanni Hidalgo, serves as a musical remedy for our collective wounds. It’s a powerful reminder of how music helps us process and overcome societal challenges.

When Jackson Browne’s voice came on the radio, we all listened. It wasn’t just music - it was a message - a voice that captured the spirit of our generation. His words resonated with a truth that felt personal, yet universal. There was a comfort in hearing him, a sense that someone understood what we were going through.

Bob Marley’s “No Woman, No Cry” is more than a song - it's a universal anthem to resilience and unity that transcends borders. Its origins in the Trenchtown neighborhood of Kingston, Jamaica, speak to the hardships of that time, capturing the struggles of marginalized communities. Listening to this reimagined classic brings back memories of solidarity during tumultuous times.

The PFC version, featuring Gilberto Gil and Stephen Marley, transforms this poignant message into a global lullaby. The track brings voices together from around the world, each contributing their own experiences of struggle and hope. When I first encountered this rendition, I was deeply affected. Though I didn’t fully grasp all the nuances of the song’s origins, its raw emotion and universal message were unmistakable. The tenderness in the performance and the way it unites conveys a profound sense of support and empathy.

“Soul Rebel,” a defining Marley classic, captures the essence of resistance and determination. Featuring what is believed to be Bunny Wailer’s final recording, this song pulses with the drive to stand strong and chart one’s own course. Marley's work has long served as a guide for those resisting oppression, and "Soul Rebel" is no exception, urging listeners to stay true to their convictions.

For those who grew up with Marley’s music, this rendition is more than just a reminder of his influence - it’s a powerful expression of his message’s lasting relevance. The connection this song continues to forge across generations and borders is remarkable, highlighting his unique ability to unite and inspire. "Soul Rebel" isn’t just a song - it's a legacy that endures, resonating deeply with listeners and reaffirming the power of the human spirit.

The album’s striking cover, created by the legendary Lee Oskar, captures the spirit of the music while highlighting the seamless blend of musical genius and visual artistry that defines his career. Renowned for his iconic harmonica work with War, Oskar played a key role in shaping the band’s unique fusion of funk, rock, jazz, and R&B, making an enduring impact on the music world.

Beyond music, Oskar has channeled his creativity into visual arts, where his passion for painting and design shines through. His work on the Songs For Humanity album cover exemplifies his versatility, merging music and visual art in a way that adds depth to the project.

You can see more of Oskar’s art on the Playing For Change website. His involvement in this project is something we’re all incredibly proud of, and it illustrates how art and music can unite to create something truly special.

For collectors and enthusiasts, Songs For Humanity is available not only for digital download but also as a deluxe LP record. With the album’s significance and high-quality production values, these copies are expected to go quickly.

As we embrace the legacy of these iconic tracks, I wholeheartedly recommend adding Songs For Humanity to your collection. Whether these tunes take you back to your youth or you’re discovering them for the first time, there’s something truly special here.

I’d suggest grabbing your copy sooner rather than later - this album is a cherished addition to any music lover’s collection and would make a thoughtful gift for anyone who appreciates the timeless power of music. Let’s keep the spirit of this music alive and share its message with the world.

One Love,
William Aura