By: Morgan Paul
2020 has been a very hard year for everyone around the world regardless of his or her profession. The spread of the Coronavirus caused many events to be canceled or postponed including concerts and other musical performances. One way people are still being kept together through this difficult time is through music. Many organizations, radio stations, and television networks have hosted living room concerts for everyone to enjoy from the comfort of their own homes. These concerts give people something to do and look forward to, while providing a great opportunity for some family time. Just as importantly, these concerts help raise money for individuals and businesses that have been greatly impacted by the virus while providing a platform to give a special shout out and thank you to all the workers on the front lines.
Many of our favorite artists, including Billie Ellish, Lizzo, Alicia Keys, The Backstreet Boys, Mariah Carey, and so many more, have played concerts that we can all view right from our own TVs. The iHeart Living Room Concert for America was one of the first large living room concerts held during this time. This concert, which was hosted by Elton John, was held to provide relief and support to the public in an effort to combat the spread of the Coronavirus. This concert alone raised $8 million dollars for Coronavirus relief and gave everyone a really fun night to enjoy some of today’s most talented musicians.
With the success of the iHeart Living Room concert, it was no wonder that others decided to join in the fun. Living room concerts have been aimed at all ages, music genres, and styles. There have been Disney themes, Broadway, pop, rock music, country, and everything in between. The concerts not only feature artists that are popular right now, but also bring back older artists and groups. During both of ABC’s Disney Sing-Alongs many well known celebrities and performers sang, got dressed up, and danced to everyone’s favorite Disney songs. One of the most awaited events during the first volume of these sing-alongs was the reunion of the original cast of High School Musical and the cast of Disney+ High School Musical: The Musical The Series. They sang “We Are All In This Together,” a timeless anthem that truly fits this time.
Living Room Concerts ultimately give everyone something to look forward to during this challenging time. Having the stars performing from their homes further shows that we are all in this situation together and gives people a sense of comfort knowing they are not alone. The concerts also give the world an opportunity to thank our first responders and front line workers. Overall, these concerts give everyone something to enjoy and smile about during a time of so much uncertainty.
Photo courtesy of variety.com.