Hope Springs Eternal

Twenty-five years ago Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie got several artists (musicians, actors etc.) to unite and sing “We Are The World.” The song was simultaneously played on all radio stations and raised a considerable amount of money for African famine relief. You bought the record and felt a sense of accomplishment by donating to a cause. But let’s face it when you felt depressed or needed to be renewed by music you didn’t put “We Are The World” on your turntable.

It’s now 2010 and the devastation in Haiti brought out the likes of George Clooney and Wyclef Jean to aid this country the best way they know how – by calling in their talented friends to man phones and perform. And that they did. Several artists including Jay-Z and Madonna are on the album “Hope for Haiti” and while they do serviceable jobs there are several standouts that will make purchasing this charitable record worth your while.

The lyrics to “Motherless Child” will never be quite the same after hearing John Legend’s rendition of it. It is heart wrenching and in this instance you may think of what’s occurring in Haiti now. However when it is 25 years later or even two months from now you may experience a break-up or a major occurrence in your own life where this version of this traditional tune will speak to the core of your soul. It’s a version that you wish did not have to be sung, but you will appreciate the desperation in Legend’s voice when you listen to it.

Then there’s Mary J. Blige featuring The Roots singing “Hard Times Come Again No More.” Written in 1854 the lyrics are timely and Blige sings it in a way that surpasses Aretha Franklin. Her voice dips into your heart and gently squeezes. It’s a good hurt where you know that you’ll come out the other side feeling the better for having experienced it.

Justin Timberlake has soul. His version of “Hallelujah” (sung with Matt Morris) will make you forget nearly every version of this song. Yes it’s that good. The man that brought sexy back caresses you with this track. You feel everything when you hear this from the hairs on your arm to the beating of your heart.

Currently the album “Hope for Haiti” is number one on several charts as is the song “Hallelujah.” That’s amazing for the effort to help Haiti; at the same time purchasing this album can be healing for you as well.