Anyone who even glances at the news these days can easily surmise a key thing that’s needed in the world today: peace. To help make this point, San Diegans will be able to take part in Earth Dance, a global dance for peace taking place simultaneously in more than 100 cities worldwide and aligned with the U.N. International Day of Peace.
The local event takes place Sept. 21 at Winston’s Beach Club from 2 to 9 p.m.
San Diego’s event will be a part of a full day of activities, starting with a group called Global Peace Meditation at the Hippie House at noon, then heading down to a Climate March at San Diego’s City Hall. This will be followed by the concert at Winston’s. On hand for the musical portion of the day will be some of the area’s most popular performers, including Sister Speak, The Country Rockin’ Rebels, MC Gill Sotu, DJ Layla and organizers Liquid Blue, which has been dubbed the “World’s Most Traveled Band.” Liquid Blue is particularly devoted to the cause, flying back home from a Canadian road trip the night before to make this gig. “It was important to us that we have musical talent from our neighborhood, as well as a mix of sounds,” said Liquid Blue frontman Scott Stephens. Fans will also be treated to dancing from Adelaide Marcus, as well as speakers like Martin Eder, founder of KNSJ Radio 89.1, and James Summer, president of the San Diego chapter of Veterans for Peace.
However, as a dance, the emphasis will be on music. For this event, Stephens and his crew have put together a special set list, comprising classic tunes that celebrate peace or have a socially conscious lyric. “We certainly have originals which fit the mood,” Stephens said. “But for this event, we’re concentrating on songs with a message. It can range from Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s Going On’ to Bob Dylan’s ‘With God on Our Side’ or Cat Stevens’ ‘Peace Train,’ but it’s important to remember that even a song like Harry Chapin’s ‘Tax,’ has a deep social message for those who listen to the words.”
The reason he gives for Liquid Blue’s involvement in the event is succinct. “Everywhere you turn today, it’s all about war, whether it’s television or a newsstand you walk by,” said Stephens. “There is very little about bringing peace. If we can shine a little bit of the spotlight on finding a hopeful alternative to what’s going on in the world, then it’s all been worth it.” He points out the band usually loses money in staging an event like this. “It’s worth it, though,” he smiled. The other acts on the bill said they are also thrilled to take part in a socially conscious event. “We always enjoy performing with other top musical acts for a good cause,” said Country Rockin’ Rebels frontman Michael Head. “It’s a win-win. And I always applaud bringing a little positivity through music. Seems like we could use it these days.” Sherri Anne, singer with SisterSpeak, concurs. “I love playing events like Earth Dance that are in alignment with a worldwide movement toward peace and where we can potentially connect on a deep level with the audience,” she said. “I believe it makes a big difference to have events alongside United Nations Peace Day, because it amplifies a peaceful energy that just may encourage people to be a little more compassionate, making this wild earth journey more enjoyable and positive.”
Though music has lost a lot of its focus in recent years, Stephens said he sees it as the perfect way to get the message of peace out in front of the public. “It’s important that there is an opportunity to voice an opinion on things like this,” he said. “We’re just one part of a larger, exciting happening. I really think we can make a difference through music.” • EARTH DANCE: Sunday, Sept. 21 at WINSTON’S BEACH CLUB, 1921 Bacon St., 2 to 9 p.m. $5. 21 and up welcome. www.winstonsob.com or http://www.liquidblue.com/Earth-Dance-SanDiego2014.htm.