Covid-19 has sent billions of people into lockdown, as countries, economies and (perhaps most importantly), health services are struggling to cope. The impact of it is financial, psychological, emotional and behavioural, all of which will undoubtedly be long lasting.
Perhaps the only silver lining in all this global craziness is, as we practice social distancing and remain self-isolated, the world actually feels smaller. After all, these are, without a doubt, extremely challenging times for everyone. The evolving COVID-19 situation has quite suddenly changed the way we work, live and interact.
One thing hasn’t changed, though, the power of the arts to connect, soothe, comfort, inspire and transform. When things are hard, many of us turn to music, books, art, theatre and other creative forms to give us hope, distract us from the mundane and inspire us to keep forging ahead. And, the ongoing pandemic was no exception to this-what, with the notably significant increase in the number of online concerts, events and donation drives. The idea, of course, was to help various sections of society.
In this context, therefore, our response through Common Roots has also been innovative, therapeutic and impactful. It was, in a nutshell, a social cause-driven online music festival aimed at raising funds and attention to multiple causes. It did, we are proud to report, showcased over 100 musicians performing incredible sets from 11 countries.
Covering four Saturdays in May 2020, Common Roots, the virtual music festival came alive, with around 30 artists performing for 12 hours. Starting from 2 pm IST Saturday until 2am Sunday, the “socially (media) distanced event” was hosted via Instagram and Facebook LIVE platforms. Fans could, thus, watch artists perform from the comfort and safety of their homes.
In lieu of tickets, viewers were encouraged to donate what they could, to three non-profits that supported daily wage workers through GiveIndia; artists and researchers through India Foundation for the Arts (IFA), and sanctuary, rescue and treatment through The Voice of Stray Dogs (VOSD).
While it is, of course, repeated ad-nauseam that these events are perfect expressions of solidarity, support and connection in the community, we had the privilege of witnessing this first-hand. And no, it isn’t an exaggeration!
In all fairness, of course, digital concerts aren’t necessarily a new thing. What made Common Roots stand out is the attempt to recreate the very “feel” of that beloved institution-the festival. The fact of the matter is that stifled by the lockdown, people are searching for new kinds of media to engage with. Ones that don’t simply replicate over-hashed content, but permits living in the moment, Eureka moments, really. Obtain a new experience through connection and relief. Experience the joy of community spirit. Let music act as a gentle persuasion to lend a hand to those adversely impacted by the global pandemic.
In fact, the very range of music on offer only aided and abetted the cause. The festival represented all genres ranging from Jazz, Rhythm & Blues, Sufi, Fusion, Rock to even Indie artists and bands. Musicians forged their unique identities and talents (and beats) to create a unified rhythm. The common tune? Spreading the universal message of hope, strength and goodwill to all, of course!
We thank each of the artists for standing up for the cause and spreading the cheer. After all, striking a common chord between numerous moving pieces is no mean feat. And we thank the audiences and viewers who have financially and socially contributed with finances and awareness.
Permit me to end on an honest (if not cheery) note. We don’t know what is in store for Common Roots in the future. We can only guess. One thing’s for sure, though. The enthusiastic response by the artists and the audiences alike was truly overwhelming and we would relive that vibe and community spirit in a heartbeat.
For now, though, we all need to be safe and see how we can all rise!
