As we near the end of this incredible year filled with travels, adventures, inspiring people, fresh music discoveries, and exciting challenges, we’re thrilled to share a recap of the very best moments from Playing For Change in 2024! So, without further ado, let’s dive into the highlights and relive the magic together.
Uniting The World Through Music: Songs Around The World
Mona Ki Ngi Xica feat. Bonga | Song Around The World
Our first Song Around The World from this 2024 was “Mona Ki Ngi Xica” a song in the album Angola 72 by the Angolan musician José Adelino Barceló de Carvalho, aka "Bonga.”
The album, released in 1972, is a mix of Latin guitar and semba, traditional Angolan music, reflecting patriotism and Angolan pride as well as the acceptance of other cultures. It was this year that we decided to give a fresh take to this song, creating this version with a different approach.
“We’re creating a new paradigm that has hope, culture, and inspiration embedded in it. That’s the hope to move forward, and this is a great example of that. Of course, the most important piece was to get Bonga himself on this song.”
We were thrilled to release our second Song Around The World—a special rendition of “Mr. Bobby” featuring the legendary Manu Chao! This journey brought together incredible talents from the streets of Angola, Colombia, and Kingston, as well as the gifted Mayan rapper Tzutu Kan and Elly B. Alongside other musicians from across the globe, they crafted a mesmerizing and culturally rich musical experience that celebrates unity through diversity.
Ataole | Song Around The World
For our third Song Around The World and commemorating the International Day for People of African Descent, "Ataole" showcases the connection between the bridges that unite Palenque, Colombia, and Angola's musical traditions, featuring emerging artists worldwide.
No Woman No Cry ft. Gilberto Gil & Stephen Marley | Playing For Change | Song Around The World
A timeless anthem of resilience, comfort, and love, Bob Marley’s “No Woman, No Cry” continues to resonate with universal themes of struggle and the strength found in unity. This special release was timed to honor the International Day of the Girl Child, celebrating empowerment and hope for girls around the world.
This song reminds us of the vital importance of providing young girls and women with the protection and opportunities they deserve. It encourages us to recognize the challenges they face and the strength they show in their communities.
Everybody Wants to Rule the World | Playing For Change Foundation x Young Musicians Unite
Seven nonprofit organizations from across the globe have come together to reimagine the timeless Tears for Fears classic, "Everybody Wants to Rule the World.” Led by Young Musicians Unite and the Playing For Change Foundation, this collaboration brings together diverse voices and rhythms, proving how access to music education drives a transformative power that unites us across borders and cultures.
From The Streets To Your Screen: Music Live Outside
Asa Branca | Manu Chao and Mermans Mosengo | Live Outside
Our first Live Outside took place during the PFC crew's journey to Angola. After driving for hours to reach the ancient native village of Calandula, the crew waited for the rain to subside. In the meantime, Mermans and Manu Chao came together for an intimate Live Outside performance, capturing the raw beauty and spirit of the moment.
Merceditas | Renato Borghetti
In light of this year’s devastating floods in Rio Grande do Sul and Porto Alegre, this song not only captured a unique moment in history but also served a greater cause. Playing For Change stepped in to support the community in Brazil during this time of need.
Tangled up in Blue | Luke Winslow-King & Roberto Luti | Live Outside
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Galicia, Spain, this performance captures the raw essence of Dylan's iconic song featuring the heartfelt vocals and musicianship of Luke Winslow-King and Roberto Luti.
Lebanon | Ondara | Live Outside
This year we also had the opportunity to record a new musician, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Ondara performing his moving song “Lebanon,” Live Outside. His lyrics and heartfelt delivery transported us on a journey that captured the spirit of love and unwavering devotion.
Beethoven / Jupiter Medley | Taimane | Live Outside
In a new collaboration with Mana Maoli, Taimane joins forces with the "Kupu Collective" artists Tomboy Mani and Kapono Wong for a captivating Live Outside performance. This medley blends Beethoven’s “Fifth Symphony” with Taimane’s original composition, “Jupiter.”
One | Clarence Bekker & Roberto Luti | Playing For Change | Live Outside
This year, we had the incredible opportunity to partner with Traditional Medicinals for the Live Outside performance of “One.” This presentation beautifully captures the essence of human connection, empathy, and unity. Clarence's soulful vocals blend effortlessly with Roberto’s mesmerizing guitar skills, transporting us to a space where borders fade, and music becomes the universal language that unites us all.
Everywhere You Go There You Are | Luke Winslow-King | Playing For Change | Live Outside
This special song was released as part of Luke Winslow King’s album Flash-A-Magic released on September 6, 2024. The song showcases Winslow-King's heartfelt vocals and Luti's evocative slide guitar, blending blues, roots, and folk influences to create a soulful musical experience full of emotion.
Steppin Out | Steel Pulse | Live Outside
The vibrant energy of the legendary reggae band Steel Pulse performing “Steppin’ Out” was nothing short of electrifying—an uplifting celebration of Rasta music, unity, and a powerful message of positivity that resonates across generations.
Makele | Baaba Maal | Playing For Change | Mark’s Park
To celebrate this year’s Black History Month we commemorated the rich tapestry of Black history, culture, and achievements with this special Mark's Park performance of "Makele" by world-renowned Senegalese musician Baaba Maal and friends.
Stir It Up | Feat. Carlton "Santa" Davis & Fully Fullwood | Tribute to Bob Marley | Mark's Park
On February 6, we had the privilege of releasing a rendition of Bob Marley’s classic “Stir It Up” from his legendary album Catch a Fire. This timeless song carries a powerful message of love and unity, embodying the spirit that Bob Marley championed throughout his life. His music continues to inspire and connect generations across the globe, and we are honored to keep his legacy alive.
"Catch a Fire in the Park" (Bob Marley Tribute) feat. Carlton "Santa" Davis & Fully Fullwood
The PFC Band Live
2024 was an unforgettable year for the members of our PFC Band, as they had the incredible opportunity to travel to Japan, Mexico, and Australia! Join them on this special journey as they perform in diverse locations around the world, spreading the power of music and unity across continents.
What’s Up / Don't Worry Be Happy | PFC Band | Live at Byron Bay Bluesfest 2024
Tears on My Pillow | Playing For Change Band | Live Outside I Shot the Sheriff | Playing For Change Band | Live at Byron Bay Bluesfest
When the Levee Breaks | PFC Band | Live at Byron Bay Bluesfest 2024
Behind PFC: Producer’s Journey
The PFC Crew embarked on an incredible musical journey during the latest Producer’s Journey, reconnecting Angola, Portugal, and Brazil as they recorded new Songs Around The World. It was during this trip that they had the honor of meeting the legendary Angolan artist Bonga and witnessing the magic as PFC and Bonga united to celebrate and collaborate on his iconic classic "Mona Ki Ngi Xica.”
Producer’s Journey: Welcome to Portugal | Playing For Change
Of course, this recap wouldn’t be complete without mentioning our latest album, Songs For Humanity—a powerful collection that underscores our mission to unite the world through music. The album features a diverse mix of musicians from around the globe, including both renowned and emerging artists, all coming together to share songs that promote messages of peace, love, and social change.
This year, we also had the privilege of sharing the most inspiring insights for our blog, diving deep into the stories behind Playing For Change. From the heartfelt journeys of our musicians to the powerful connections made through music, we’ve captured the moments that continue to fuel our mission. These stories reflect the passion, dedication, and unity that drive our global community, reminding us all of the incredible impact music has on the world.
And last but not least, with your support, we were able to help the PFC Foundation achieve its goals of spreading music education around the world! Your commitment has played a crucial role in bringing the power of music to communities in need, empowering the next generation of musicians, and fostering creativity, unity, and hope through the universal language of music.
Thank you from the whole Playing For Change family! Your support is the heart of our mission, and we couldn’t do it without you. Here’s to more music and unity in 2025—see you there!
