Tag Archives: Domestic Violence

The “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” Interview – Kevin Mileski

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As part of  The Pixel Project’s 30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” project in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign, we talk to the artistes who have participated in the project about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our fifteenth featured artiste is Kevin Mileski. Kevin is a singer-songwriter currently residing near Chicago, Illinois. With five full-length albums, eight major compilations, and over a thousand live performances, he has made a name for himself throughout the US and Europe. Kevin has performed at some of the nation’s greatest acoustic venues and has licensed many of his compositions to major recording artists and television. He is currently working on his next album to be released late 2014. He is honoured to be a part of The Pixel Project’s Music For Pixels campaign and “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” project.

Kevin contributed his song, “Where’s Your Conviction” to the “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” campaign in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign that 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$10 and you can donate here.

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Kevin Mileski

Tell us about yourself and why you decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” project.

I was approached with the 30/30/30 project and thought it to be wonderful. I’m rarely asked to be a part of something for which I believe in so whole-heartedly. This is one of those causes. I’ve seen enough violence to ALL and find myself specifically disturbed by the violence towards women and children.  This is something I could do that had the potential to actually help.

Why is ending violence against women important to you?

I wish it didn’t exist.  I wish it was never a thought for resolution of anything; but it does exist and there are people who believe this is how you “fix” a problem. When I was younger, my mom was dating a man who obviously hit her. Although she never admitted it, I knew this to be the case. It’s important to me to know that, if a woman as strong as my mom couldn’t admit it was happening, what is happening to other women who aren’t as strong? It’s scary. It starts a cycle of violence that never ends and I refuse to sit back and watch it happen.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?

Music’s power is stronger than we know. It has the power to help people come together. It helps people relate.  Particularly in the case of an artist who has taken a risk in writing a tough topic, you’ll see the supporters of music come together. Music is poetry and as such, a wonderful outlet. Although the definition of music is different for individual people, the affect and effect are very much the same.

What actions can music artistes take to help end violence against women?

We have the power of the microphone.  We have the power of the ability to make people listen. We have the power to stop the sound, stop the singing, start the sound, start the singing.  We have the unique ability to make ourselves characters – characters who people can relate to. We are the sounding board and the relationship that can show people how ridiculous and unnecessary this violence is. We can take a picture of you and show you what you look like. You just hear it instead.

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The “Music For Pixels 2014” charity digital album is available from 1 April 2014 – 1 April 2015 as a companion to the “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” campaign. The album features a selection of 12 positive and empowering songs from the campaign by artistes including  Adam Web, AHMIR, AJ Rafael, Bob Sima, Courtney Jenae, Debbie Reifer, Delaney Gibson, Ellis, Macy Kate, Mary Sholz, Pete Ahonen, and Troy Horne. 

The album is the perfect and affordable gift for music lovers and for celebrating special occasions such as birthdays and Mother’s Day. It is available for download worldwide via major online music retailers including iTunes and Amazon.com. 100% of the album proceeds will benefit The Pixel Project to help keep their anti-Violence Against Women campaigns, projects, and programmes running.

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The “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” Interview – Jana Stanfield

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As part of  The Pixel Project’s 30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” project in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign, we talk to the artistes who have participated in the project about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our fourteenth featured artiste is Jana Stanfield. You’ve heard Jana Stanfield’s music on 20/20, Entertainment Tonight, Oprah, the movie “8 Seconds”, and radio stations across the US. Her compositions are sung by Reba McEntire, Andy Williams and others, and Jana has shared stages with fellow performers ranging from Kenny Loggins to The Dixie Chicks. Known as “The Queen of Heavy Mental,” Jana describes her music as “psychotherapy you can dance to.” For the past 15 years, Jana has made her living as a Keynote speaker at conferences and corporate events. She is a charter member of the international Positive Music Association which promotes Positive music artists and Positive music as a distinct genre of music. To learn more about Jana, follow her on Facebook or check out her videos on YouTube.

Jana contributed her song, “Every Awesome Woman” to the “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” campaign in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign that 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$10 and you can donate here. ——————————————————————————————————————–Jana Stanfield

Tell us about yourself and why you decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” project.

As a singer-songwriter I’m grateful to have a way to speak to many people at once, through the music. If music is well-written, it can deliver a message that enlightens people in a compelling way without being preachy. That is always my goal.

Why is ending violence against women important to you?

Ending violence is important to me because I don’t believe than any human being should be intentionally harmed. I believe people should be respected and cared for, not injured until they submit to another person’s will.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?

Music has the power to influence people’s opinions, the way that “a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down”. We know that phrase because it is in a song that many children learn. When we learn messages in song, the messages stick, and they last a long time, and it’s time that we use all the means we have to educate people that it’s time to end violence against women.

What actions can music artistes take to help end violence against women?

At one time, people thought it was okay to beat their children in front of others, as though that was normal. It is no longer normal, and the same goes for violence against women. It is not normal, and not tolerable before the eyes of others, or behind closed doors. As more and more of us speak up, and share messages in our songs that empower women, it will become more and more abnormal to find out that violence toward women is still happening. I look forward to that day.

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The “Music For Pixels 2014” charity digital album is available from 1 April 2014 – 1 April 2015 as a companion to the “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” campaign. The album features a selection of 12 positive and empowering songs from the campaign by artistes including  Adam Web, AHMIR, AJ Rafael, Bob Sima, Courtney Jenae, Debbie Reifer, Delaney Gibson, Ellis, Macy Kate, Mary Sholz, Pete Ahonen, and Troy Horne. 

The album is the perfect and affordable gift for music lovers and for celebrating special occasions such as birthdays and Mother’s Day. It is available for download worldwide via major online music retailers including iTunes and Amazon.com. 100% of the album proceeds will benefit The Pixel Project to help keep their anti-Violence Against Women campaigns, projects, and programmes running.

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The “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” Interview – Faith Rivera

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As part of  The Pixel Project’s 30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” project in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign, we talk to the artistes who have participated in the project about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our thirteenth featured artiste is Faith Rivera. If Tony Robbins were a girl, could sing like Mariah, groove like Madonna and inspire like Oprah, you’d get…Faith Rivera! Faith is an Emmy award-winning singer/songwriter heard around the globe from the Hollywood Bowl to the Honolulu Symphony to virtual concerts online. Her sunny music has been used on Hawaii 5-0 and ER to supporting authors like Marianne Williamson & Jack Canfield. We are born to shine and Faith loves nothing more than creating music to celebrate that spark in everyone! To learn more about Faith, follow her on Facebook or check out her videos on YouTube.

Faith contributed her song, “Let It Out” to the “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” campaign in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign that 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$10 and you can donate here.

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Faith RiveraTell us about yourself and why you decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” project.

I’m an Emmy winning singer/songwriter and touring positive music artist. I’ve been playing and creating music since my childhood days in Hawaii, and even then I saw the power of music to make an empowering difference. Growing up with strong women leaders and role models, I know the immense gifts, nurturing and wisdom that can only come from women. So I knew immediately that I wanted to be a part of Pixel Project’s mighty campaign to make a stand for all women and girls.

Why is ending violence against women important to you?

Ending all violence is important to me and I do my best to share music and messages that promote peace as a way of life.  It is women and feminine values of nurturing and love that can truly turn the tide from violence to peace on our planet. So every girl and every woman needs to be protected and given the opportunity to share their voice and unique brilliance with the world.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?

Music has a way of transcending the limitations of mere words by creating a feeling, touching folks in deep, surprising ways and even moving listeners to action. Not only can songs bring light to important causes, they can penetrate the hearts and thoughts of women and girls needing to be empowered, inspire action in supporters of the cause, and even move those that might be inclined to violence to more life-affirming and loving ways.

What actions can music artistes take to help end violence against women?

Most importantly, artists can commit to a life of peace themselves and contribute to the movement by their own example. Also, creating and sharing songs that promote peace can take the message further. Certainly speaking on the topic to their audiences any chance they get and recommending resources and organisations like The Pixel Project are other great actions to take.

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The “Music For Pixels 2014” charity digital album is available from 1 April 2014 – 1 April 2015 as a companion to the “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” campaign. The album features a selection of 12 positive and empowering songs from the campaign by artistes including  Adam Web, AHMIR, AJ Rafael, Bob Sima, Courtney Jenae, Debbie Reifer, Delaney Gibson, Ellis, Macy Kate, Mary Sholz, Pete Ahonen, and Troy Horne. 

The album is the perfect and affordable gift for music lovers and for celebrating special occasions such as birthdays and Mother’s Day. It is available for download worldwide via major online music retailers including iTunes and Amazon.com. 100% of the album proceeds will benefit The Pixel Project to help keep their anti-Violence Against Women campaigns, projects, and programmes running.

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The “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” Interview – Ellis

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As part of  The Pixel Project’s 30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” project in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign, we talk to the artistes who have participated in the project about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our twelfth featured artiste is Ellis. There’s just something about Ellis. She is at once funny and wise, thoughtful and uninhibited, and her captivating voice is matched by her uplifting lyrics. After her Feb 2013 appearance on A Prairie Home Companion, Ellis’ music charted in the Folk Top 100 in iTunes and Folk Top 20 on Amazon.com. She also received hundreds of messages from strangers including, “you exude pure joy”, “I heard you and fell in love” and “I was stopped in my tracks by your music and captivating laugh” as well as “Yours is a voice we all need to hear.” Ellis’ performances are transformational; she leaves her audiences better than she finds them, with softened edges & opened hearts.

A winner of several awards and honors, Ellis has been recognized both for her songwriting skills as well as her engaging performances. Many folk festivals have “audience choice” awards, and Ellis has claimed those honors at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival, Moab Folk Festival, and Sisters Folk Festival. She also won the Grassy Hill Kerrville New Folk Contest in 2013, the Midwest Mountain Stage New Song Contest (US) in 2011 and the award for the Just Plain Folks (International) Best Female Singer Songwriter Album in 2009.

Ellis contributed her song, “You Are Royalty To Me” to the “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” campaign in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign that 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$10 and you can donate here.

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Ellis # 4- 300 dpi credit - Jake Jacobson(.jpg)Tell us about yourself and why you decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” project.

I have been blessed with many strong women in my life, including my granny (the inspiration for my song), my mother, my partner and my daughter. Women are leaders, creators, and inspirations to me. I’m excited to be a part of any project that champions the health,happiness, and safety of women.

Why is ending violence against women important to you?

I long for a world where my daughter can grow up and be seen and respected as an equal human being, safe from all objectification and abuse. A world where she can be free.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?

I think music is a powerful tool. It can open people’s hearts and move them. That is how I believe all change and real connection is created; through open-heartedness.

What actions can music artistes take to help end violence against women?

I think the first step is to look at how we treat ourselves and others. Not just in our interactions, but also how we speak about others in our songs. Unfortunately we live in a culture that often treats women and girls as objects. What we need are leaders who challenge that.

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The “Music For Pixels 2014” charity digital album is available from 1 April 2014 – 1 April 2015 as a companion to the “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” campaign. The album features a selection of 12 positive and empowering songs from the campaign by artistes including  Adam Web, AHMIR, AJ Rafael, Bob Sima, Courtney Jenae, Debbie Reifer, Delaney Gibson, Ellis, Macy Kate, Mary Sholz, Pete Ahonen, and Troy Horne. 

The album is the perfect and affordable gift for music lovers and for celebrating special occasions such as birthdays and Mother’s Day. It is available for download worldwide via major online music retailers including iTunes and Amazon.com. 100% of the album proceeds will benefit The Pixel Project to help keep their anti-Violence Against Women campaigns, projects, and programmes running.

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The “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” Interview – Ellen Bukstel

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As part of  The Pixel Project’s 30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” project in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign, we talk to the artistes who have participated in the project about why they are using their music to speak out and to say NO to violence against women. 

Our eleventh featured artiste is Ellen Bukstel. Hailed by Pop Star and Social Activist Michael Bolton as “An Amazing Artist And Spirit,” Ellen Bukstel challenges her listeners to laugh, dig deep and embrace the wild emotional rollercoaster we call life with every daring turn of phrase…a rare, bold, real deal maverick, a multi-faceted break the mold original who lays her emotions bare, puts her passions on the line and, without fear, makes the world perk up and pay attention with straight talking, heart on her sleeve, from her soul to yours lyrics.. From hilariously funny to moving compositions of love, remembrance, and social awareness, her songs always hit home. She has been recognised with 14 international fundraising awards for her music videos with songs that have collectively have helped to raise close to a hundred million dollars for community causes such as Housing the Homeless, Human Rights, Helping people with Alzheimers and Children with Wide Spectrum Autism and Raising Awareness about Domestic Violence.

Ellen contributed her song, “You’re Not Better Than Me” to the “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” campaign in support of the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign that 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$10 and you can donate here.

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Ellen BukstelTell us about yourself and why you decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” project.

Back in 2005, there was no other issue captured my attention more, at that time, than the tragedy and proliferation of domestic violence (DV) in my community and the country and world.  I was fired up and raring to take on the world and so, to arrest and calm my frustration, I wrote my song – an anti-domestic violence called “You’re Not Better Than Me,” and through several DV organisations it has helped to raise hundred of thousands of dollars for DV outreach and education.

I have been speaking and singing AGAINST domestic violence and FOR empowerment of women for many years and I was delighted, through 30/30/30 , to have the opportunity to share my song with women who might be comforted or empowered by the music and lyrics and the intention of my song.

All of the artistes in 30/30/30 have made a commitment to speaking out and that is what music does. It crosses all boundries of race, skin color, religious and spiritual beliefs and socio-economics. We are all PEOPLE who deserve respect and to be safe in the world.

Why is ending violence against women important to you?

Knowing that violent acts and injustices happen to women all around the world makes it everyone’s responsibility to speak out. By being silent we give our consent! Speaking out, or in my case “singing out” is my personal way of helping to educate and to change laws that will make perpetrators accountable and demand protection of women’s rights by enforcing those laws.

In your opinion how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?

Music and songs have historically been a unifying force amidst the sometimes turbulent movements of social change. They have had a universal way of bringing awareness about many things. They have shaped our world. The Pixel Project’s 30/30/30 project recognises the commitment of singer-songwriters who are trying to positively influence our culture with their fearless social activism and unwavering commitment to peace and positive change

Music is my way of speaking out against the oppression and injustice. We live in a male dominated world with cultures that, for generations, have perpetuated violent customs and crimes against women. Education and protective laws are important to foster changing attitudes towards women. The more we teach our children at a young age to respect life and family and one another, the more we foster independence and positive self esteem as they grow into adults.

What actions can music artists take to help end violence against women?

If I could do ONE thing through my song to help, I would say to every women that they are “beautiful” and “vital” and “intelligent” and to say to anyone and everyone who tries to minimise their worth: ”You’re Not Better Than Me!”

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The “Music For Pixels 2014” charity digital album is available from 1 April 2014 – 1 April 2015 as a companion to the “30 Artistes, 30 Songs, 30 Days” campaign. The album features a selection of 12 positive and empowering songs from the campaign by artistes including  Adam Web, AHMIR, AJ Rafael, Bob Sima, Courtney Jenae, Debbie Reifer, Delaney Gibson, Ellis, Macy Kate, Mary Sholz, Pete Ahonen, and Troy Horne. 

The album is the perfect and affordable gift for music lovers and for celebrating special occasions such as birthdays and Mother’s Day. It is available for download worldwide via major online music retailers including iTunes and Amazon.com. 100% of the album proceeds will benefit The Pixel Project to help keep their anti-Violence Against Women campaigns, projects, and programmes running.

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Interview with an Artiste: Christian Varela

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As part of The Pixel Project‘s “Music For Pixels” campaign, we encourage artistes taking part in any “Music For Pixels” programme, be it as an Artiste of the Month or as a YouTube Cover Carnival contestant, to speak up about why they are using music to say NO to violence against women.

Today, we interview Columbian YouTube artiste Christian Varela who submitted his cover of One Direction’s “Little Things” for our Valentine 2013 YouTube Cover Carnival contest which ends at 9PM EST, 14 March 2013.

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Sombrero (CB)Cristian Varela is a sixteen-year-old musician from Bogotá, Colombia. He has been playing guitar for the last ten years along with taking voice lessons over the last year. He has been in his rock band for two year and is currently doing covers of songs and working on original compositions.  His dream is to be a great guitarist and singer recognized not only in Columbia but all over the world. I had a rock band for two years.

1. Tell us about yourself and why you decided to take part in the YouTube Cover Carnival.

 I have been reading about the Pixel Project and your work to stop violence against women.  I felt that I could help spread this message through music and one of my covers on youtube.  That is why I decided to submit my video and join the Pixel Project to spread the message to end violence against women.

 2.  Why is ending Violence against Women important to you?

I think it’s important to stop violence against women because my own mother has been a victim of violence and I know with certainty how sad and painful it is to live in this environment.  I am aware that many women in the world are also victims of violence.  I believe that, as a man, I have a duty to spread this message to my friends and family

3.  In your opinion, how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?

Music is the means by which all types of messages are transmitted to all the people of the world. Day by day, millions of people receive messages that convey the music they hear. If, through the music and through different musical genres, I can create and transmit messages to help stop violence against women, then I have accomplished a great contribution.

4.  In your opinion, how can musicians help encourage people to take an interest in and step up to help stop violence against women?

I think that musicians have the ability to convey messages of love and affection with their songs. As musicians, they have some power over their fans that listen to them, and can therefore send messages of encouragement directly to large audiences.

Interview with an Artiste: Tara-Lynn Sharrock

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As part of The Pixel Project‘s “Music For Pixels” campaign, we encourage artistes taking part in any “Music For Pixels” programme, be it as an Artiste of the Month or as a YouTube Cover Carnival contestant, to speak up about why they are using music to say NO to violence against women.

Today, we interview Australian YouTube artiste Tara-Lynn Sharrock who submitted her cover of Whitney Houston’s “Greatest Love of All” for our Valentine 2013 YouTube Cover Carnival contest which ends at 9PM EST, 14 March 2013.

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Tara1Tara-Lynn Sharrock was born in Durban, South Africa, 1986. Her first song was in Zulu at eighteen months old.  In 1992, Tara-Lynn moved with her parents, two brothers, and two sisters, to Australia, where she took part in several talent contests.  Then in 2004, she moved to USA, where she participated in two musicals along with fundraising concerts to support education programs.  In 2009, she returned to Australia, where she continued her music career.  She reached the Top 6 Under 25 Girls category on the X-Factor show in Australia 2011 but  had to withdraw due to visa issues. She loves music, art, science,  rugby union and classic cars.    

 

 1.  Tell us about yourself and why you decided to take part in the YouTube Cover Carnival.

I decided to take part in the Youtube Cover Carnival because violence against women is a very serious, and unfortunately, far too common blight across the world. As women, as musicians, as people, we must unite against such violence and one such way that I can do that is to take part in a competition that has people behind it, helping promoting it, and getting the word out. My voice is the best method I have for sending meaningful messages that will be heard across the world.    

2.  Why is ending Violence against Women important to you?

A very close female relative of mine was raped at age sixteen; she then endured nine years of domestic violence, before finally managing to escape. I witnessed the verbal and emotional abuse that she suffered during those years. She has been free from abuse since.  It was her vow to ‘never be a victim again’ that has inspired in me a strength and a desire to spread a message of love, support, and finding that strength in oneself.  Ending violence against women is so important to me because  I have seen firsthand just how damaging it can be to a person. No one should ever have to live in fear.

3.    In your opinion, how does music help in efforts to end violence against women?    

Music is one of the most, if not the single-most powerful methods by which to send messages of any kind to everyone. It transcends all languages and all borders and connects people on a deep emotional level. It can inspire them to hold one another, laugh with one another, cry with one another. It can move them to act and inspire them to make changes in society that need to be changed – such as stopping violence against women. There are many women and men who do not stand for such violence. All they need is a voice to inspire them, to unify them and give them that little kickstart to act.    

4.   In your opinion, how can musicians help encourage people to take an interest in and step up to help stop violence against women?

Musicians are public figures that have become role models whose fans and supporters look up to them.  Music has the power to transcend all and connects people who might not have been connected otherwise. It is a powerful force against division. Music unites. Musicians have the wonderful opportunity to be the voices of the world, reaching out to thousands of people through Youtube and other social media outlets that they might not have been able to reach otherwise. People are more likely to listen to the emotion and message delivered in a powerful song than they are to anything else. Music moves people and drives them to act; and musicians are the catalysts of that action.

“16 For 16” Digital EP Interview: Tony O’Malley

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Tony O’Malley is a singer and piano player in the soul tradition who formed the legendary groove band Kokomo. Although he has worked with pop creators 10CC, Motown’s Martha Reeves & the Vandellas and played on a numerous albums including Bob Dylan’s ‘Desire’, these days Tony prefers to concentrate on recording and performing his own music at http:tonyomalley.bandcamp.com

1. How did you come to know about The Pixel Project? Tell us why you decided to take part in The Pixel Project’s “16 For 16” Digital EP.

I’d sent ‘Nicoletta’ to mutual friend Deeyah*, who forwarded the song to The Pixel Project. Once accepted, we were more than happy to participate with Regina Yau and her team.

Editor’s note: Deeyah is a prominent musician, women’s rights activist and founder of AVA Projects working to end the scourge of Honour Killing.

2. What inspired you and Marty Townsend to write “Nicoletta”?

We wrote the song after hearing that a good friend had been brutally beaten and abused by her baby’s father.

3. Violence Against Women is usually pigeonholed as a women’s issue and it can be an uphill task getting men and boys involved in stopping the violence. Why is ending Violence against Women important to you as a man?

It’s important to me as a person. Continue reading →

ANNOUNCEMENT: And The Winners of the Fall 2012 YouTube Cover Carnival are…

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21 September 2012: The Pixel Project, the award-nominated global volunteer-led virtual non-profit social enterprise working to end Violence Against Women (VAW) worldwide, is proud to announce and warmly congratulate the three top winners of their Fall 2012 YouTube Cover Carnival competition:

The Grand Prize Winner is The Other People from India with their harmony-rich R&B style arrangement of “Dark Side”. They will receive a comprehensive package worth at least US$1400 including: Free production, mixing and mastering of one of their original songs courtesy of Lost Monkey Studio; Placement of that original song on Lost Monkey’s catalogue for TV/Film licensing; Free distribution of that original song by Horus Music; Having their winning cover of ‘Dark Side’ included in The Pixel Project’s year-end “16 For 16” charity digital EP. Their YouTube Cover of “Dark Side” will also be featured on the YouTube homepage of The Pixel Project’s YouTube Music Ambassador – YouTube’s Number One R&B band, AHMIR  – for 3 days together with a video foreword from AHMIR.

The Second Prize Winner is Jess Greenberg from England who submitted a lovely, laidback acoustic cover of “Dark Side”. She will receive a package worth US$500++ including: 1 of her original songs mixed and mastered by Lost Monkey Studio and placed in their licensing catalogue for potential TV/Film placement; 1 autographed AHMIR CD and one AHMIR t-shirt; and free-of-charge digital distribution by Horus Music for the winner’s song of choice mixed and mastered by Lost Monkey for 3 years (worth US$200).

The Third Prize Winner is ToRi-LyNN from the U.S.A. with her powerful rendition of “Dark Side”. She will receive a package worth US$300++ including: 1 original song from the winner’s repertoire placed in Lost Monkey Studio’s licensing catalogue for potential TV/Film placement; 1 autographed AHMIR CD OR one AHMIR t-shirt; Free-of-charge digital distribution by Horus Music for the winner’s song of choice for 3 years.

Regina Yau, Founder and President of The Pixel Project said: “The YouTube Cover Carnival competition is one of our Music For Pixels campaign’s programmes designed to get YouTube artistes on board the cause to stop VAW. This is our first ever YouTube Cover Carnival and we are very pleased to see the level of support there is out there for the cause. 12 up-and-coming YouTube artistes from 5 countries took part in the competition to help us spread our message about stopping VAW worldwide and 4,498 people voted in our 5 finalists from which we selected the final winners. Our next YouTube Cover Carnival will be in February 2013 and we hope that the competition will continue to grow and develop into a major global online platform for up-and-coming artistes from YouTube and beyond to say NO to VAW.”

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For further information, please contact:

General Inquiries:

Media Inquiries:

About the Music For Pixels Campaign (http://music4pixels.thepixelproject.net)

Music For Pixels, a campaign by The Pixel Project, is the first music-based social media campaign to exclusively collaborate with YouTube artistes speaking up to prevent and stop VAW through music video PSAs while raising funds for the cause via digital music downloads. All funds raised from the portion of the song’s proceeds donated by artistes in 2012 will go towards the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign in benefit of the USA’s National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and other anti-Violence Against Women nonprofits.

About The Pixel Project (www.thepixelproject.net)

The Pixel Project is a complete virtual, volunteer-led global 501(c)3 nonprofit organisation whose mission is to raise awareness, funds and volunteer power for the cause to end violence against women through innovative, powerful viral campaigns across various online and virtual channels including social media. Their first project is the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign which aims to turbo-charge global awareness about VAW using social media while raising US$1 million by getting a global audience to collectively unveil a million-pixel mystery collage of Celebrity Male Role Models at US$1 per pixel.

About AHMIR (www.ahmirmusic.com)

AHMIR is the #1 MOST POPULAR R&B GROUP on YouTube with over 60 million video views and comments by celebrities such as Ryan Seacrest, Ashton Kutcher, Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, Perez Hilton, Pink, and more. The group has used their success to bring awareness to several charity organizations including Lucy’s Love Bus, Haiti Relief Fund, American Red Cross, American Cancer Society, Words Matter, YMCA, Kevin Youkilis Hits for Kids, and The Pixel Project. Their cover video of Pink’s “Perfect” was named one of the top Anti-Bullying PSA’s by The Huffington Post. AHMIR is now signed to Robbins Entertainment (distributed by RED / Sony Music).

About Horus Music (www.horusmusic.co.uk)

Horus Music is a 360 degree music company based in Leicester, UK, specialising in music distribution, publishing and management.  They are a one stop shop for getting your music on sale in online stores and subscription services worldwide, including: iTunes, Amazon MP3, Spotify, Deezer, Nokia, Napster, eMusic, Google Music, YouTube, Vevo, Myspace Music, HMV Digital, Zvooq, Simfy, 7Digital, Rhapsody and many more. They can also provide physical distribution throughout the UK.

About Lost Monkey Studio (www.lostmoneystudio.com)

Lost Monkey is a 16-track Pro Tools studio in Hayward serving artists and bands seeking a comfortable environment in which to produce broadcast-quality sounds. The studio is owned and operated by Bay Area drummer Mike Stevens, who drew upon his experiences working in the area’s most venerable studios to open Lost Monkey in 2010. Lost Monkey is currently also building a solid roster of immensely talented West Coast artists who are working hard towards becoming some of the most seminal musicians in the world.

CAMPAIGN UPDATE: Our First YouTube Music Ambassador and Two New Partnerships

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1 July 2012: The Pixel Project, the award-nominated global volunteer-led virtual non-profit social enterprise working to end Violence Against Women (VAW) worldwide, is proud to announce the first YouTube Music Ambassador and two new partnerships that will take the Music For Pixels campaign (http://music4pixels.thepixelproject.net) from strength to strength.

YouTube’s Number One most popular R&B group AHMIR, the campaign’s first ‘Artiste of the Month’ who kicked off Music For Pixels in April 2012 has been appointed as The Pixel Project’s first YouTube Music Ambassador due to their commitment to the cause. In addition to donating the proceeds raised from download sales of The Rose to The Pixel Project for life, AHMIR will be working with the Music For Pixels team on various aspects of the campaign including the YouTube Cover Carnival, speaking out about VAW as male role models and recruiting other YouTube artistes to the campaign.

AHMIR said: “We feel very blessed and honoured to be working alongside The Pixel Project team as the first YouTube Music Ambassadors in raising awareness to end violence against women. We are excited about the many opportunities to use our social platform to help this important campaign.”

The Pixel Project also welcomes two music companies on board as campaign partners. The first is Horus Music in the UK with whom The Pixel Project has signed a 3-year pro bono agreement to distribute all Music For Pixels music to major digital channels for downloading including iTunes, Amazon and Spotify. Horus Music will also be handling the licensing/royalty payment processes for any cover music used by the campaign, thanks to their membership with The Harry Fox Agency, the premier mechanical licensing agent and provider of rights administration services and the largest aggregator in the U.S. 100% of the net proceeds of all campaign music distributed via Horus Music will be donated to The Pixel Project.

Nick Dunn, Founder and CEO of Horus Music said: “We are very excited to be working with The Pixel Project, a nonprofit that does so much good work around the globe for those in society who still have to struggle daily with sexism, inequality and medieval attitudes.  Music is one language that can unite the world and bring joy to all so we’re especially proud to be able to help ensure the artistes working with The Pixel Project can have their music heard around the world and make a difference to many lives, those who discover the artistes and to those who will benefit from the work of The Pixel Project.”

The second is San Francisco, California-based Lost Monkey Studio which handles up-and-coming independent U.S. West Coast artistes and brings with them more than 20 years of recording and music management experience. As part of their partnership with The Pixel Project for the Music For Pixels campaign, Lost Monkey will be donating a range of music-related prizes such as Music Production, Mixing, Mastering and TV/Film Licensing Submission for YouTube Cover Carnival winners to inspire musicians all over the world to take part in the campaign to use their musical talent to say NO to VAW. Lost Monkey artiste, Pete Ahonen, will also be collaborating in an upcoming Music For Pixels online fundraiser, details of which will be announced later this year.

Mike and Michelle Stevens, Co-founders of Lost Monkey Studio said: “We are pleased to be collaborating with The Pixel Project and deeply believe in what they are working towards. Music is something that feeds the soul. We all have our own personal soundtracks to life, and they help us, heal us and make us stronger. Lost Monkey is deeply honoured to be a part of the mission to end Violence Against Women.”

Regina Yau, Founder and President of The Pixel Project, said: “The Pixel Project and our Music For Pixels team is looking forward to working closely with AHMIR, Horus Music and Lost Monkey Studio over the next 12 months and beyond. We are pleased that all three share our strong belief that music is a powerful and positive tool that gets people aware of the importance of stopping VAW while promoting healthy non-violent relationships and personal empowerment, particularly when it is easily shareable through social media and other online channels. Together, these collaborations will strengthen the Music For Pixels campaign and its mission to encourage hope and courage in survivors while inspiring men, women and youth to work together to end violence against women in whatever capacity they can, wherever they are in the world.”

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For further information, please contact:

General Inquiries:

Media Inquiries:

About the Music For Pixels Campaign (http://music4pixels.thepixelproject.net)

Music For Pixels, a campaign by The Pixel Project, is the first music-based social media campaign to exclusively collaborate with YouTube artistes speaking up to prevent and stop VAW through music video PSAs while raising funds for the cause via digital music downloads. All funds raised from the portion of the song’s proceeds donated by artistes in 2012 will go towards the Celebrity Male Role Model Pixel Reveal campaign in benefit of the USA’s National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and other anti-Violence Against Women nonprofits.

About The Pixel Project (www.thepixelproject.net)

The Pixel Project is a completely virtual, volunteer-led global 501(c)3 nonprofit organisation whose mission is to raise awareness, funds and volunteer power for the cause to end violence against women through innovative, powerful viral campaigns across various online and virtual channels including social media. Their first project is to turbo-charge global awareness about VAW using social media while raising US$1 million for the U.S.A.’s National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and other anti-Violence Against Women nonprofits by getting a global audience to collectively unveil a million-pixel mystery collage of Celebrity Male Role Models at US$1 per pixel.

About AHMIR (www.ahmirmusic.com)

AHMIR is the #1 MOST POPULAR R&B GROUP on YouTube with over 60 million video views and comments by celebrities such as Ryan Seacrest, Ashton Kutcher, Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, Perez Hilton, Pink, and more. The group has used their success to bring awareness to several charity organizations including Lucy’s Love Bus, Haiti Relief Fund, American Red Cross, American Cancer Society, Words Matter, YMCA, Kevin Youkilis Hits for Kids, and The Pixel Project. Their cover video of Pink’s “Perfect” was named one of the top Anti-Bullying PSA’s by The Huffington Post. AHMIR is now signed to Robbins Entertainment (distributed by RED / Sony Music).

About Horus Music (www.horusmusic.co.uk)

Horus Music is a 360 degree music company based in Leicester, UK, specialising in music distribution, publishing and management.  They are a one stop shop for getting your music on sale in online stores and subscription services worldwide, including: iTunes, Amazon MP3, Spotify, Deezer, Nokia, Napster, eMusic, Google Music, YouTube, Vevo, Myspace Music, HMV Digital, Zvooq, Simfy, 7Digital, Rhapsody and many more. They can also provide physical distribution throughout the UK.

About Lost Monkey Studio (www.lostmoneystudio.com)

Lost Monkey is a 16-track Pro Tools studio in Hayward serving artists and bands seeking a comfortable environment in which to produce broadcast-quality sounds. The studio is owned and operated by Bay Area drummer Mike Stevens, who drew upon his experiences working in the area’s most venerable studios to open Lost Monkey in 2010. Lost Monkey is currently also building a solid roster of immensely talented West Coast artists who are working hard towards becoming some of the most seminal musicians in the world.