Customer Reviews

Songs Around The World (CD + DVD)

5 star:		(225)
4 star:		(27)
3 star:		(5)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

I have watched thousands of videos in my life; being in the music business; but I don't believe I have ever been so moved. This CD/DVD is a must buy. The concept from the filmmakers is both original and brilliant. Adding tracks and overdubbing them into one song took a lot of hard work and it was seamless.

Do yourself a favor and buy this CD/DVD. You will not be disappointed. Stand By Me will never sound the same by anyone else again.

I first became aware of Playing for Change when a friend sent "Stand By Me" the video to me in an email. I was moved from the very first note. Bringing the people of the world together is the key to finding World Peace and I applaud these musicians for taking the first step. Music is the international language and they have done a superb job with the songs on this album. You can not help but be moved to tears on "Stand By Me", Biko and the rest of the music will find a place in your soul and you will feel what it is to be one with the music, and through the music, one with the world. Please Playing for Change, give us more!

I first learned of Playing For Change when the originator of this brilliant concept was interviewed on Bill Moyers' program several months ago. Two of the songs on this CD were played at that time and I was in love! Now the CD + DVD have been released. I've been able to hear and watch several of the other recorded tracks and been moved and inspired by each. It's a technological marvel with musicians from around the world blending their voices and instruments without ever being together. I have never been more moved or inspired! The musicians, from street players to some who seem to have been classically trained, blend in perfect harmonies and allow me to believe that it is possible that all people could do the same; if we just get together we can feel all right! But if that concept doesn't interest you, just listen for the wonderful music. Peace.

I first heard about Playing for Change on the Bill Moyers show. My CD/DVDs arrived this week, and I've been listening to them ever since. I even found myself stuck in traffic the other day and not caring, because Chanda Mama was on.

This is the best "feel good" music I think I've ever heard.

Playing for Change is something special. It is marked by the fusion of an incredibly diverse range of musical styles and artists into one coherent package. I never would have imagined that so many diverse instruments, musical styles, and voices could be put together to make music so beautiful.

The main strength of Playing for Change is the emphasis on the so-called street musicians and artists most people have never heard of. Sure, some of the artists are well-known within their genres (Bono, Keb' Mo', etc.), but the vast majority of the musicians on the album are not recognizable by most folks.

In fact, it's frustrating because some of the performers on the album are so compelling that I immediately wanted to buy their albums. The problem is that many of them do not have albums since they are street performers or virtual unknowns. For example, Grandpa Elliott, a Louisiana street musician, has to have one of the most inspiring voices I have ever heard. It was disappointing to find out that there are no readily available albums by this amazing talent.

The album is so good that it is ashamed there are only ten tracks. It would have been really nice to have more tracks, maybe perhaps a second disc of music. Yeah, that is probably greed on my part, but heck, this stuff is so good I want more.

The DVD that is included with the CD is a must-watch. Having a visual of the many performers and their instruments, in their native countries, definitely adds context and meaning to the music. Watching Rajhesh Vaidhya play the veena or seeing Clarence Bekker belting out his vocals enhances the overall listening experience. It was a great move to package the DVD with the CD.

Since receiving Playing for Change it has been playing virtually nonstop in my CD player. I literally cannot hear these songs enough. They illustrate that music is the ultimate universal language.

Forget the review.. Just click Buy. Must have CD and also for a good cause.
If you need convincing, just search "playing for change" on youtube and you will be sold. I sure was after the 1st video.

The 1st time I knew of Playing for Change was from an interview with Mark Johnson on PBS's Bill Moyers. It was so heartwrenching because of the thought behind it that it made me cry. After seeing the videos on the newly released DVD (and CD combo) it was no less inspiring. This is one of the most unique and thoughtful piece(s) of art in music form I think I have ever experienced. Thank you Mark Johnson for bringing this to all of us. Such phenomenal talent from all over the world brought together this way is remarkable!

Playing For Change is really a heart warming thing, and in my opinion this could honestly change the world. Watching people all over the world uniting through music is priceless, this is proof that peace really is possible!

It is well worth the money spent. I could listen to it all day plus you get the DVD too!

I was first turned to this group when I saw the "Stand By Me" video and it absolutely blew me away. I am so very deeply touched by this movement and their mission and the music made is just so uplifting and heartwarming. It really lightens the spirit and I've been telling all my friends. Music is a huge force and it really does bring us all together. Basically, this CD is amazing and I highly recommend also checking out their website [...]