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 sixteenth featured artist is Lauren Ruth Ward. In 2012, Baltimore, Maryland, Lauren Ruth, whose smoky voice and raspy tone show vulnerability and strength, was recognised on YouTube for one of her cover songs gaining over 1 million hits, capturing the attention of labels such as Warner Brothers Records, Sony Records and Copeland Entertainment.
Ward’s fan base crosses from folk to rock and easily appeals to country fans as well as mainstream audiences. She made her first radio debut on 89.7 WTMD’s Baltimore Hit Parade. In 2014, Ward signed with Copeland Entertainment Management. In less than one year, she’s written with Lauren Christy and world renowned Producer Linda Perry. Ward is set to release her EP in Fall 2015. To find out more about Lauren, follow her on Twitter, or check out her 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 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.
Tell us about yourself and why you have decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels Summer Charity Concert.
I’ve decided to take part because I feel very passionately for what The Pixel Project stands for. As a child, my parents always stressed the importance of equality. In some parts of the world, I believe violent acts against women are triggered by inequality. Music applies to all races, sexes and ages. By reaching out musically, there is great hope of opening more eyes and touching more minds thus shinning a light on this very serious issue.
Why is ending violence against women important to you?
I am so fortunate to live in a country where women rarely face half the brutality that others endure. As a human, it makes me sick to know cruelties such as genitalia mutilation and trafficking are happening everyday. As a woman, I feel it is only logical to do what I can to help end these cruelties and others.
In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?
I remember learning in history class that music came before language. It is in every culture. In my life, it’s usually the number one topic I use to relate to whomever I am meeting. I’ve also used music many times as a healing mechanism for death, heartache or just a bad day. It applies to all races, sexes and ages. By reaching out musically, we can touch lives who’ve suffered and gain attention from those who can help.
What actions can music artists take to help end violence against women?
Not only taking part in events like The Pixel Project’s Summer Charity Concert but sharing my experience and how great it feels to be able to help others will spread the word about violence against women. Hopefully one day I will be able to give generously to charities I feel so passionate about such as The Pixel Project.