Written by Adriana Morales
Today we recognize Ben Lindell and the album titled "Shuffle", put together with the help of numerous artists for VH1's Save The Music Foundation. Ben and the artists involved had the desire to contribute to public music programs that inspire and help mold the next generation of musicians we come across each year. There is an urgent need to end cutbacks of scholastic music programs. All students should have the opportunity to benefit from these programs, and this is the message that Ben Lindell is trying to drive home. Statements such as the following one show just how beneficial these programs are to students:
"Music plays a comprehensive role in the education, self-esteem, and overall well-being of a child's life." (See reference link below)
I am honored to have been asked to review "Shuffle" and I must say that I am impressed with what these artists were able to put together. In just 14 tracks, we are introduced to artists Roshon, Amanda Brown, Johnny Burgos, Tatiana Owens, Guy Lockard, Amber Skye, Freddie Cosmo, Matt Ballinger, Bobby Brickstone, Sam Nulton, Dan Godlin, Gliffics, Lenny Harold, and Camo. The musical selection was quite enjoyable, since there were different genres mixed in throughout the album.
The melodies and rhythm of pop, R&B, hip-hop, dance, rock, and even contemporary country music were heard throughout! Roshon's "Take A Chance" is cute and catchy in a very Chris Brown-ish kind of way. Then there's Amanda Brown and Tatiana Owens who both have such rich, strong voices. Tatiana's voice reminded me much of Christina Aguilera in "I Know U Know". Songs like Freddie Cosmo's "Floating On Air" should easily capture the attention of young folks since dance/pop music is all the rage. In fact, every song on "Shuffle" was perfectly selected as they're all in line with current, popular musical styles. The concept is great as it allows our youth to relate to these songs and genres easily. Those who wish to donate will enjoy each song as if it were just heard on the radio.
Overall, "Shuffle" is a great debut album for each person involved in its creation and they should all be extremely proud to be part of it. Between now and September 4th, 2013, 100% of the proceeds for "Shuffle" will be donated to VH1's Save The Music Foundation. Music lovers everywhere can donate to this great project at emwshuffle.org (Amounts are completely up to the contributors).
If you would like to listen to "Shuffle" and learn more about Ben Lindell and the artist's efforts, check out a video they created discussing the project as well as some of the snippets here:
https://emwshuffle.org/
Here is a link that provides 11 facts about music education and how it benefits students.
http://www.dosomething.org/tipsandtools/11-facts-about-music-education
Reference: http://musicempowersfoundation.com/the-importance-of-music.html
