Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert Interviews

As part of The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert, we talk to the music artists who have participated in the concert about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our twelfth featured artist is  Jake Roque. Jake is a 19 year old Singer-Songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Huntington Beach, California.  Driven by a passion for music, Jake taught himself to play multiple instruments and began writing songs, leading worship and performing at events in his hometown.  He has also grown an audience through the use of social media (YouTube and Vine), performed at venues like The House of Blues, Hollywood and been acknowledged for his talents from artists like Ed Sheeran, Colbie Caillat, Tyler Ward and more. Jake has a reputation for paying special attention to his fans and intends to release a debut original EP Summer of 2015. Check out Jake’s music via his YouTube channel and follow Jake on Twitter.

The Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert was held in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign in benefit of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and The Pixel Project. Donate at just US$1 per pixel to reveal the mystery Celebrity Male Role Models and help raise US$1 million for the cause while raising awareness about the important role men and boys play in ending violence against women in their communities worldwide.

Donations begin at just US$1 and while the Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert Indiegogo fundraiser is running from June 5th to July 5th 2015, donors can donate to get exclusive music and artist goodies ranging from personal Skype concerts to treat bundles for the serious music lover.

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Tell us about yourself and why you have decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert.

My name is Jake Roque and I’m a 19 year old singer-songwriter/social media artist from Huntington Beach, California.  I have decided to take place in The Pixel Project’s Charity Concert because I want to use what I have been given to give back to great causes like the Pixel Project.

Why is ending violence against women important to you?

Ending violence against women is important to me because I believe women deserve an exceptional level of love and respect from men, especially within the context of a relationship.  I’m honored to be making a stand to encourage others to work alongside the Pixel Project to end the various types of abuse that women experience.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?

Music has an incredible power to influence those who listen.  Writing and performing music that is uplifting and speaks towards women in a positive light is important because repetition of an idea in music does affect one outlook on life.

What actions can music artists take to help end violence against women?

Music artists can use the influence their music has on others to shape a positive view of treating others the way they want to be treated and artists can raise awareness and funds to help stop injustices in the world.

As part of The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert, we talk to the music artists who have participated in the concert about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our eleventh featured artist is  Harold Payne is a multi-platinum songwriter whose soulful uplifting songs and husky heartfelt vocals have graced stages around the world. He has written songs for such diverse artists as Rod Stewart, Patti Labelle, Kelly Rowland, and Carlos Santana —literally from Peter Paul and Mary to Snoop Dogg. The launch of Harold’s Power of Positive Music series led him to performing with motivational speakers like Mark Victor Hansen (Chicken Soup for the Soul), Jim Cathcart (The Acorn Principal) & countless others. Most recently, Payne has been using his creative custom and improv song talents for organisations like National Speakers Association and Contagious Optimism Live. Learn more about Harold at www.haroldpaynemusic.com.

The Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert was held in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign in benefit of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and The Pixel Project. Donate at just US$1 per pixel to reveal the mystery Celebrity Male Role Models and help raise US$1 million for the cause while raising awareness about the important role men and boys play in ending violence against women in their communities worldwide.

Donations begin at just US$1 and while the Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert Indiegogo fundraiser is running from June 5th to July 5th 2015, donors can donate to get exclusive music and artist goodies ranging from personal Skype concerts to treat bundles for the serious music lover.

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Tell us about yourself and why you have decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert.

I am a performing songwriter specialising in positive, uplifting music for entities like Contagious optimism live, empower music and arts (Posi Music Fest), and the Awakened World Film Festival. I also create custom and improv songs for conferences and special events.

Why is ending violence against women important to you?                                            

I believe that everyone on this planet deserves basic human rights and the opportunity to pursue their dreams. We need to lend our support in places where these rights and  opportunities don’t already exist.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?      

An inspiring and uplifting song can give hope and strength in the darkest hours or say something in a way that touches, moves or comforts someone to let them know that they are not alone. It can also encourage others to rally behind such an important cause.

What actions can music artists take to help end violence against women?

Music artists can write songs that shine a light on the plight of those affected by these conditions & perform for events that champion this cause. Even the smallest steps can start a chain reaction in the right direction.

As part of The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert, we talk to the music artists who have participated in the concert about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our tenth featured artist is Hannah Wondmeneh. Hannah Wondmeneh is a singer/song-writer from Brampton, Ontario, Canada, a suburban city right outside of Toronto. Hannah grew up singing in church, started taking piano lessons at age 5 and wrote her first song at 9. For as long as she can remember, music has been the way that she expresses herself and connects to those around her. Currently a university student, she plans to pursue her music dreams full time after she graduates. For now, Hannah uses her YouTube channel as a creative outlet for covers and originals in her Soul, R&B and Hip-Hop influenced sound.

The Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert was held in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign in benefit of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and The Pixel Project. Donate at just US$1 per pixel to reveal the mystery Celebrity Male Role Models and help raise US$1 million for the cause while raising awareness about the important role men and boys play in ending violence against women in their communities worldwide.

Donations begin at just US$1 and while the Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert Indiegogo fundraiser is running from June 5th to July 5th 2015, donors can donate to get exclusive music and artist goodies ranging from personal Skype concerts to treat bundles for the serious music lover.

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Tell us about yourself and why you have decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert.

I’m an aspiring musician singer/songwriter as well as a university student studying journalism and human rights. Whether through journalism or music, I want to give a voice to the voiceless and make a positive impact on the life of others. Being a part of The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert was a no brainer.

Why is ending violence against women important to you?

As an advocate for human rights, which of course includes women’s rights, it becomes very obvious that ending violence against women is such a vital part to healing families and communities cross-culturally. It’s an issue that is so widespread and common and so incredibly harmful.

As I get older more and more women around me have become victims and the issue becomes that much more real to me. I don’t want to hear anymore new stories. That’s why ending violence against women is so important to me.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?

I think music is amazingly powerful in its ability to spread ideas, encourage understanding and create unity. It can help people know that they’re not alone and give people the courage to speak out. And that speaking out is really what is needed to end any kind of injustice. When it comes to violence against women, I think it’s about giving victims the courage to speak out and inspiring allies to raise their voices.

What actions can music artists take to help end violence against women?

As a musician I’m very conscious of the kind of effect I could have and choosing whether or not to make that something positive and meaningful. Speaking out against these kinds of injustices is exactly what I want to do with any platform I’m blessed to be given.

Supporting organisations like The Pixel Project, creating songs with empowering messages and telling difficult stories can help to make a difference and end violence against women. Be vocal about what matters, that’s the power of music.

As part of The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert, we talk to the music artists who have participated in the concert about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our ninth featured artist is Haley Blais. Haley Blais is a lonely musician dreaming of puppies and residing currently in Vancouver, BC. She can be found strumming on her ukulele whilst singing songs about breakups she never had, or looking up pictures of Harry Styles on Google. She has been praised for her lyricism and compared to the likes of First Aid Kit for her soft, fluttering vocals. When she’s not making music, she has a web series where she stars as herself every Wednesday on YouTube. Haley lives on the internet and sometimes in real life. You can follow her and her adventures on Twitter.

The Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert was held in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign in benefit of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and The Pixel Project. Donate at just US$1 per pixel to reveal the mystery Celebrity Male Role Models and help raise US$1 million for the cause while raising awareness about the important role men and boys play in ending violence against women in their communities worldwide.

Donations begin at just US$1 and while the Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert Indiegogo fundraiser is still running from June 5th to July 5th 2015, donors can donate to get exclusive music and artist goodies ranging from personal Skype concerts to treat bundles for the serious music lover.

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Tell us about yourself and why you have decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert.

My name is Haley and I’m a musician from Vancouver, BC. When I was contacted by The Pixel Project I was excited to get behind and raise money in attempts to support this great cause and bring awareness to the subject of violence towards women.

Why is ending violence against women important to you?

This is like asking why food is important to me – because it just is. Because I’m a woman, a decent human being who believes in equal rights and treatment of all people.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?

I think music is relatable for everyone – it’s a universal language. In my opinion, the thought that music could help end violence against women is a dream, but it will take much, much more than that.

In the meantime I believe music can inspire women to feel empowered and inspired.

What actions can music artists take to help end violence against women?

Artists, especially those in the spotlight, can bring a subject like this to light and inspire others to as well through their music and the message portrayed, or supporting a specific charity. Artists can influence and inspire people/fans of all ages to become more aware on the subject of domestic abuse, etc.

As part of The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert, we talk to the music artists who have participated in the concert about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our eighth featured artist is out-of-this-world pop sensation, Eva Universe, who has been cultivating her passion for entertaining and genre-melding sound from a very young age. The Billboard Dance charting artist has made quite a name for herself in the world of dance and pop music, collaborating with Gucci Mane (“Not My Daddy”), Tyga (“Body On Mine”) and producer J.R. Rotem on her latest singles. She has performed alongside the likes of Nas, Alicia Keys, and The Wanted and is currently on Nick Cannon’s Celebrity High Magazine Tour! Eva’s latest single, “Trapped,” (December 2014) is about self-awareness and the ability to navigate your way out of harmful relationships and situations. Learn more about Eva and her music via her website or check out her Facebook page.

The Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert was held in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign in benefit of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and The Pixel Project. Donate at just US$1 per pixel to reveal the mystery Celebrity Male Role Models and help raise US$1 million for the cause while raising awareness about the important role men and boys play in ending violence against women in their communities worldwide.

Donations begin at just US$1 and while the Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert Indiegogo fundraiser is still running from June 5th to July 5th 2015, donors can donate to get exclusive music and artist goodies ranging from personal Skype concerts to treat bundles for the serious music lover.

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Tell us about yourself and why you have decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert.

I decided to join The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels concert because it’s a great opportunity to participate in a wonderful cause that has the capability to reach out to so many viewers. I’m excited to perform my new single ‘Trapped’ because it ties into the theme extremely well. I’m happy to be a part of this great event!

Why is ending violence against women important to you?                       

Ending violence against women is very important. Domestic abuse is something many women have kept secret because it can be shameful, but now we are making society more aware which translates into not feeling alone and gaining the courage and strength to get out of that situation. No one deserves to be stuck in an abusive situation.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?      

Music alone cannot end violence against women but it’s a tool many people use to draw out emotions such as courage, strength, hopefulness, and confidence. I believe it can aid in any type of hard situation. I, myself, listen to music when I need inspiration. I have certain songs that make me sad, some bring out my anger, and others boost my morale and confidence. I think most people can relate to using music in a similar way.

What actions can music artists take to help end violence against women?

Music artists are in a great position to get their voices heard. This is because we have large platforms that can reach out to a broader audience.

I believe we must take these opportunities seriously because a part of fame is embracing the responsibility to send out important messages. We have the ability to inspire people with our music as well and not only is that a gift but its also a chance to make a positive change. 

As part of The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert, we talk to the music artists who have participated in the concert about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our sixth featured artist is Cecilia St. King. Since running from the falling towers of the WTC and discovering cancer in her throat 6 months later, Cecilia St. King, Peace Troubadour has been traveling from coast to coast, healing our world using the gift of Music. Translating the Ageless Wisdom teachings into song, her concerts effect social change. Her performance invigorates the mind, energizes the body, expands awareness, galvanizes the imagination, affirms the wisdom of the heart, reminds us of the Spirit within us all, and awakens us to new possibilities. Blending American roots music that merges rock, blues, folk, spirituals and a hint of jazz, her music is contemporary and upbeat and offers a powerful antidote to turmoil in our current times. Find out more about Cecilia via her website and follow her on Twitter.

The Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert was held in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign in benefit of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and The Pixel Project. Donate at just US$1 per pixel to reveal the mystery Celebrity Male Role Models and help raise US$1 million for the cause while raising awareness about the important role men and boys play in ending violence against women in their communities worldwide.

Donations begin at just US$1 and while the Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert Indiegogo fundraiser is still running from June 5th to July 5th 2015, donors can donate to get exclusive music and artist goodies ranging from personal Skype concerts to treat bundles for the serious music lover.

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Tell us about yourself and why you have decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert.

My name is CeciIia St. King. I am a Peace Troubadour. I’ve been traveling around the United States for the past 15 years performing concerts for Peace: Inner Peace that is because that is where it all begins, in our homes, in our communities, in our hearts.

My heart is filled with gratitude knowing there are other light-workers helping to heal our planet. The Pixel Project brings together people who are being the change we wish to see in the world, so glad to be joining forces with them.

Why is ending violence against women important to you?                                            

I know first hand the ravages of violence. I was raped twice as a young woman. It annihilated my life till I was able to forgive.

Violence against women is also violence against the inner most being of a man. What we do to one, we do to ourselves. When violence is perpetrated against a woman, it affects the perpetrator as well. It stays with them throughout their lifetime, through guilt, remorse, shame. When we shine the light on these atrocities we can begin our healing.  We are at a turning point in our world, woman are rising above being considered as second-class citizens, feminine energy is being recognised for the soft power it brings to healing our world.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?      

“Where there is music there can be no harm.” Music eases the heart and brings peace to people. When music is played in the home, peace reigns, it opens our hearts and activates our brain like nothing else does.

What actions can music artists take to help end violence against women?

Sing, play and make a joyful noise.

As part of The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert, we talk to the music artists who have participated in the concert about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our fifth featured artist is Carolan Deacon who is an Illuminating Songstress and Truth Guide. A musical wellness warrior, she is armed with her gifts of voice, coaching and healing arts. Carolan creates live and virtual  experiences that light a path to living in the freedom of truth. She is the creator of Ease & Grace Circle, and Empowered Voice Coalition, 2 international communities that empower women with finding their true voice and living in the freedom of their Truth. Her positive life-affirming music plays a key role in her programs as she believes in the power of music to heal and transform. Her concerts are enjoyed around the country and her music and teachings can be found on her website.

The Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert was held in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign in benefit of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and The Pixel Project. Donate at just US$1 per pixel to reveal the mystery Celebrity Male Role Models and help raise US$1 million for the cause while raising awareness about the important role men and boys play in ending violence against women in their communities worldwide.

Donations begin at just US$1 and while the Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert Indiegogo fundraiser is still running from June 5th to July 5th 2015, donors can donate to get exclusive music and artist goodies ranging from personal Skype concerts to treat bundles for the serious music lover.

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Tell us about yourself and why you have decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert.

I am a singer/songwriter who creates songs that empower, shift energy and boost positive thoughts. I have seen what happens first hand when a woman experiences violence against her. I was excited to hear of The Pixel  Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert because this is an issue close to my heart.

My heart just absolutely sings when I think of The Pixel Project and the powerful message it carries! Thank you! I am honoured to come together with this fabulous group of people sharing their gifts in ways that both increase awareness of and offer supportive solutions to violence against women around the world. No More!

Why is ending violence against women important to you?                                            

Her spirit can crumple and it is devastating. The effects of her experience can ripple over into every area of her life and last for years, whether she is aware of it or not.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?      

As a Positive Music artist and creator of True Voice Coalition (a community committed to helping women around the world reclaim the power of their own voice and live free and empowered), I have seen the transformation that happens when a woman cultivates her sense of self and decide to live empowered and free.

I love the fact that music can play a key role on changing lives as it has the unique ability to heal us and enhance our neuroplasticity, which in turn helps us make tough changes with more ease and comfort.

What actions can music artists take to help end violence against women?

Put the message of hope and empowered freedom in your lyrics. Be eager to put your face, your music and your voice out to the world in saying: NO MORE VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN!

As part of The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert, we talk to the music artists who have participated in the concert about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our fourth featured artiste is Bob Sima (pronounced sEYE-ma). Bob’s music begins as a conversation with the Source that lives within each one of us. Bob’s gift is not simply singing to his audience, it is connecting to his audience. His lyrics are inspired by his personal journey of awareness, growth, and transformation. His delivery is humble, palpable, and universally accepted. He is able to capture, in song, what Eckhart Tolle captured through his writings and speeches. Bob’s music reminds us of the lessons, the reminders, the splendor, and experiences that are passed down from our ancient ancestors and master teachers. From his heart to yours, and your heart ours, allow the conversation to live on. You can follow Bob’s updates on Facebook, or watch his videos on YouTube.

The Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert was held in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign in benefit of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and The Pixel Project. Donate at just US$1 per pixel to reveal the mystery Celebrity Male Role Models and help raise US$1 million for the cause while raising awareness about the important role men and boys play in ending violence against women in their communities worldwide.

Donations begin at just US$1 and while the Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert Indiegogo fundraiser is still running from June 5th to July 5th 2015, donors can donate to get exclusive music and artist goodies ranging from personal Skype concerts to treat bundles for the serious music lover.

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Tell us about yourself and why you have decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert.

Music is a powerful tool for personal transformation.  Personal transformation is a powerful tool for global change.

This is a great concert! I loved the energy of all of who are a part of it, and it really drew me in to be part of something that has a great intention and great vibe and is truly a great value to humanity.

Why is ending violence against women important to you?

I feel that all life is sacred and all life is equally important, and it is vital to connect at a sacred level with all life – men, women, children and all of earth’s beings. Women and the divine feminine have been suppressed for far too long in a masculine defined world, and this has to change in order for our planet to shift to a higher, more loving and compassionate place.

And specifically, violence against women is unconscionable to me on every level and so I stand with the Pixel Project in creating energy and awareness around ending this cycle by leading humanity to a place of higher consciousness.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?      

Music empowers feelings, emotions and intentions that can lead to action. I consider my songs a soundtrack to transformation. The song for this project we chose is “Shine”, because this song speaks to the opening and flowering of consciousness and when we shine, we give others permission to shine as well. If a person comes from their centre, their light, then violence would never be an option and we can see a brighter and more peaceful place for all beings.

What actions can music artists take to help end violence against women?

Start with the songs; they are the quickest vehicle to the heart. The heart is where changes and shifts happen in people. If you can create art that creates change, then you are on the right path!