Over the last three weeks, I don’t think there has been anyone has been left untouched by the dramatic and heart-breaking pictures, news and interviews coming out of Haiti since the Earthquake struck. Here in the UK the emergency response was swift and the media attention meant the appeals were never far from our minds. Now however, the news has moved on, the news anchors have come home and even though the work still goes on, interest in the relief operations is dwindling.
But what does this have to do with you? Surely this is Music Blog? And you’d be right, of course. But as I’ve proved in earlier posts, music plays an integral role in our social and political lives. As a result, it is unsurprising that when looking to renew interest in a cause, thoughts turn to charity singles and benefit concerts.
There’s been a mountain of publicity already about certain projects, but I wanted to take this moment to introduce our UK readers to another event, which is just as worthy if less well-known.
For the last 2 weeks I have been volunteering for a charity called Action Against Hunger. Originally a French organization they have been present in Haiti since 1985 and were one of the first to launch an emergency response following the earthquake on January 12th. Now, however, the time has come to think about restoring the infrastructure to ensure a long-term future for the country.
The result: A Night For Haiti
Featuring a host of up and coming indie acts and some of the most talked about names in the UK music scene, the event really does look like it’s going to be one of those one-of-a-kind nights. The Boxer Rebellion (who’s latest release was No.1 Alternative album on iTunes) and London songstress Eliza Doolittle are due to perform live, with DJ sets from the incredible Foals and New Young Pony Club.
So if you are in London, and fancy a fantastic night out, which will also benefit those most desperately in need across the Atlantic, I can’t stress this event too much. Normally I view benefit gigs with suspicion, but having been around while this one was being organized, it shows me that they can be done well, with 100% of proceeds actually going to the specific appeal.
If not, please take a look at their website, and watch out for the review in a couple of weeks!
Normal service will resume next week – hopefully with news about an upcoming trip to Abbey Road! *Squeals with delight*
Post by Mary Stokes - Meet Me
Located in the UK, music has been part of my life for a long time. I'm a classically trained violinist but have a wide range musical knowledge.
