All month I didn’t know if I was going to write one word for my column, an interview or anything for All Access Magazine, as much as I wanted to, I didn’t know if I would be able to. For all I could do was to find comfort in my first love; music. As the deadline started creeping up on me, I had decisions to make. First I did my interview with Regan Browne, a kind and wonderful musician on the rise. He gave me the energy to continue, even thou I didn’t have time to do my usual format, and nothing had inspired me yet. The clock was ticking away!
Having watched American Idol since its first season, I found the inspiration I needed. I watched artist after artist come on stage asking those of us with so much too please give money to those with so little. So somewhere between Terri Hatcher singing Carrie Underwood’s song “Before He Cheats” and Fergie singing with the greatest female band HEART on their greatest song ever “Barracuda”; I picked up the phone and made my donation. I love the ‘American Idol Gives Back’ episode. We get to watch major acts singing their hearts out, and ask those with so much to give just a little back. The music industry has a way to bring people and music together and help save!
Though it’s a little known fact that Simon C. gives his money generously, he does. The mean man of music critics and record labels everywhere, is actually a softie of heart, and shares his millions rather generously. The clip however when he went to New York City to visit the poor family where the young teenager had Rheumatoid Arthritis and the mother has Lupus just left me sobbing. I stared, tears rolling down my face. Two diseases I know very intamitly. I looked at the mother who has to take care of two children, sores all over her face, and lives in the worst of conditions. It is highly unlikely she can afford the 20 medications that are normally needed to control the disease I call, the cancer that never goes away, the dream stealer.
As I watched, I had to turn away. Though all the musicians I work with know I suffer from Lupus. It is only by the Grace of God and good fortune that I am not in that woman’s shape. When Forrest Whitaker was in Africa with the children that were fighting for their lives because of Malaria, I turned to my husband very sad and said; “I wish I could help all those children in Africa, the Lupus patients”. I have always tried to put others needs above my own, and tried to give back.
I just know that music is universal, it heals the soul. It feeds the soul. I was attracted to this magazine because of that fact. The editor, Debra Stocker works very hard to make sure she gives back. Her and John Green have worked with Toys for Tots for nearly 10 years now. They are involved in various animal anti-cruelty foundations, The Los Angeles Children’s Hospital, The Love Run, and many other fund raisers. Just about any charity or event supported by music that comes knocking on her door, Debra tries to rally up her writers, photographers, and musician friends to come help support. The truth be told, it was because of John and Debra’s financial aid, support and generosity that a certain bar & grille remains open today, giving local artist and groups a place to perform! They have a heart the size of 10 people, as do many of the musicians I have met, and have hopefully yet to meet.
Music is a lifeline, it can give, it holds memories, and gives joy and comport. Music as I said is universal. It does not see your race or income when playing in your home. It is there to provide inspiration. From famous musicians to those artist/groups just beginning their journey. Listen to their lyrics, listen to their music. Much of which is filled with passion, pain or joy, inspiration to sorrow, they wish to lift and take us away. When times are difficult in the world, music tends to reflect those times. Either becoming very angst ridden, and telling those in power to stop the insanity of war and famine. Or just trying to bring light where none seems to live. Right now, many artists are rushing into dangerous territories to uplift our troops and keep their spirits high. Music gives; to the sick, poor, hard working, those hit by disasters, even small creatures that have no voice of their own.
Whatever your passion, favorite charity, or fund raiser is. It’s with the help of ‘MUSIC” and musicians worldwide. As Bono’s huge charity says we as the world, we are ONE! Now are you. It does not matter what charities you wish to back, or how, it can be manual labor by helping Habitat for Humanity, helping the Red Cross in any way you can, or donating to any charity you feel needs your support.
“Someone has it worse than you and they maybe a world away or closer than you think. Just know, someone, somewhere is waiting for you to help them”.
I have needed help before, and received it, Now, I must give back. This entire magazine does, and I hope in some small way, no matter how small, in my idealistic mind (to a fault) that those who can do.
