PGHIMC - Pittsburgh Independent Media Center

One Earth Concert Scheduled to Benefit Audubon Society of Western PA
by Joanie Seigel Sunday, Jan. 28, 2007 at 10:24 PM
makenews3@yahoo.com (email address validated)

Local songwriter and allied performers support regional and national environmental organizations though music.

There was a time when musicians spent a significant amount of their time performing to increase the awareness of issues that impact all of us - world hunger, education, world peace, the environment. Names like John Lennon, George Harrison, and John Denver bring images of hope for the oppressed, and through that hope, a better future for all of us. Ultra-cool modern pop icons such as Bono lend credibility and awareness to crises like the potential genocide simmering in the conflict in Darfur.

At the other extreme, music with a purpose is seen by some at best awkward, and at worst opportunistic.

One local songwriter doesn't care about any of that. He sees worthy causes all around that need a voice --- and he lends his own voice, and songs, with sincerity that detracts nothing from the message. His largest fan base is found on the community social web resource myspace, where over 5,000 people tune in to hear his latest uploads. His music has drawn the attention of national events, including an invitation to perform at the 2006 annual John Denver celebration called Aspen in October. In November 2006, Jack performed with his band, the 3kR, at the Group Against Smog and Pollution's annual fundraiser.

Previous to these experiences, Jack and his band had played around Pittsburgh for 15 weeks in 2006 at local venues. After the experience at the John Denver Peace Cloth events and the GASP fundraiser, Jack says, he was hooked.

When some of the fans from these events began asking about his next shows, Jack wanted to deliver. In the summer of 2006, Jack and his family had hiked the trails at the Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, home of the The Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania (ASWP). So, when some of his fans started asking for more shows, the connection was easy. Recalling his family's outings, the One Earth concert was born. This year's event will be held onsite at the Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve Auditorium and proceeds will benefit the ASWP.

The online connections to Jack run deep with his fans. With no promotion, the event is already nearly sold out. The tagline of the event, "an evening of nature, starlight, purpose-filled music and friends", reflect the dimensions of the closeness that Jack shares with his fans.

When asked about his rising popularity, the self-confessed "hopeful romantic" Jack is practical:

"Songwriters care that someone is listening, and in this case, the response has been overwhelming. I focus on four concepts: earth, love, peace and hope. I personally use the songs to cope, so I guess I put real feelings, often raw emotions, into the lyrics. People respond to that. And I certainly respond to them. I'm also fortunate enough to be able to do shows that I think matter, that have a positive impact. And to have a great troup of friends who are also willing to share their time and talent in support of these causes."

Where Jack and the 3kR Band will perform next is a mystery, even to them. Some lucky regional organization is likely to find their membership grow due to Jack's ability to bring attention to their cause.

Tickets for the One Earth concert are available online http://jackknightmusic.com/events

jackknightmusic.com/events