Music that Matters: an Interview with Karen Scott of Music for Human Rights
Music for Human Rights is an ambitious, star-studded project that seeks to effect change through music. Housed at Amnesty International USA, the initiative collaborates with international music acts around the world. U2, REM, Sting, Bruce Springsteen, and Nickelback are just a small sampling of the big name artists that support Music for Human Rights.
But the project goes further than just endorsements. It also promotes artists such as Emmanuel Jal, a survivor of the killing fields in Sudan, and has even co-produced its own music video. Each project encourages meaningful action by musicians and their fans.
I spoke with the Program Manager of Music for Human Rights Karen Scott about her innovative work. She’s a true music lover and a quick glance at the website will show you how busy she really is. Not everyone can imitate such a high profile organization — Amnesty has over 2 million members — but Karen seems convinced that we can all make a difference.
In a few words, what does the Amnesty International Music for Human Rights program do?
Music for Human Rights is a place to find out how musicians are using their voice to promote Human Rights.
How did you get involved in the program?
Music has been my passion since I was a teenager. I’ve worked in the music industry in different capacities over the past 15 years. But I felt a void – I felt like I wasn’t being fulfilled. I got a call about this position and it was one of those right-place-right-time circumstances. I guess you can call it Kismet.
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Photos courtesy of (and copyrighted by) Amnesty International 2009. Top photo, Noodle of the Gorillaz.
