Playing For Change: Music For a Quiet Revolution

Playing for Change is a multimedia music project created by the American producer and sound engineer Mark Johnson with his Timeless Media Group, that seeks to bring together musicians from around the world. The project started in 2004 with the organization's self described goal to "inspire, connect, and bring peace to the world through music". Together with Enzo Buono, Mark Johnson, traveled around the world to places such as New Orleans, Barcelona, South Africa, India, Nepal, the Middle East and Ireland. Using mobile recording equipment, the duo recorded local musicians performing the same song, interpreted into their own style. Among the artists participating, or openly involved in the project, include Vusi Mahlasela, Louis Mhlanga, Clarence Bekker, Tal Ben Ari (Tula), Bono, Keb' Mo', David Broza, Manu Chao and Grandpa Elliott. The project's first single "Stand by Me", began with a Santa Monica street performer named Roger Ridley (now deceased). The duo traveled the world, recording more and more musicians. All of these versions were considered for mixing a pastiche final version. The Playing for Change Foundation is a non-profit organization, dedicated to creating and supporting music schools, principally in developing countries. 3 music schools and a total of 7 music programs have been created since 2008.

Source: Wikipedia