We Are Family

Have you ever had the chance to celebrate your heroes? I was given the wonderful opportunity to celebrate the work of Sting and his wife Trudie at the We Are Family Foundation Honors Gala. The foundation is based on the premise that we are all in this together, as its mission statement reads: Its mission is dedicated to the vision of a global family by creating and supporting programs that inspire and educate people about mutual respect, understanding, and appreciation of cultural diversity – while striving to solve some of our biggest global problems at the same time.The foundation encourages and empowers those who want to, for lack of a better phrase, do good.

Sting and Trudie, for many reasons are a couple I look up to. Their love of each other and humanity is humbling. Trudie's work to save the rainforests, indigenous populations and her work with UNICEF is inspiring.
If it wasn't for Sting, I never would have been inspired to write my first play - and see it performed. His desire to educate through his music is what, for me, allows him to transcend the ranks of celebrity into humanitarian.

The night was a celebration of positive actions to help better this world. I was astounded by the gifted Slater Jewell Kemker , the mind and soul behind the film An Inconvenient Youth. Her passion about global climate change has lead her to become a vocal and passionate spokesperson - at only 20 years old. She too was inspired by the works of Sting and Trudie Styler.

Ndaba Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela, was also on hand to lend praise along with the President and CEO of UNICEF to a couple who do more than just preach - they act. Raising millions for relief, assistance and awareness of many organizations, this couple demonstrates that you can use celebrity to make change.

Immediately, when they walked into the room, the first thing you notice is that - this couple really, really, really loves one another. Their deep affection and respect for each other was even more appreciated when Sting stepped aside and Trudie read the speech for the night.

Then the party began. If it wasn't enough knowing I would have a very private Sting concert, the fact that Nile Rodger, Chic and Sam Moore were performing brought perfection to the night.
Hearing Sam Moore sing the song made famous by The Blues Brothers was just the beginning of some musical memories.

Sting - began the night with Englishman in New York, tweaking the first line  ever so slightly. Fields of Gold and Brand New Day took second and third songs. This man is in his 60s and sounds and looks incredible. And the whole time, his wife sat at the side of the stage, I swear, swooning over each word.

Sam Moore joined Sting for an incredible Every Breath You Take and a surprising version of Bill Withers, Just the Two of Us. The night ending with some 70's classics, and of course, with We Are Family.

The night was special to say the least. Yes, he's one of my favorite bassists and she is the reason why I began yoga, but try something for one second. Think of some celebrities - do they focus on making the world a better place for the future generations? Do they strive to empower those who have been given no chance to live? That is why I look to these two - this couple - as an inspiration. They inspire me to work that much harder to think about charity work and giving a voice to those who have none.

The clips I took are only about 30-60 seconds long...the music was just too good :)

Englishman In New York

 

 

 

 

Brand New Day

 

 

Just the Two of Us