Hassan Hakmoun's Focus For Change Music Monday Playlist

This is part of our series of guest posts and guest-curated playlists we are publishing in honor of our 10th anniversary Focus For Change benefit taking place  October 16, 2014. This year’s theme is “Stories of Courage: Celebrating Human Rights Defenders.” Our next guest-curator is Hassan Hakmoun, one of contemporary Moroccan music’s stars. Mr. Hakmoun is performing at this year’s event.

“Songs of Courage” Curated by Hassan Hakmoun

• “So much trouble in the world” by Bob Marley­
  I first heard his music in his documentary in 1975. He is a very special artist and messenger of peace & love. I was blessed get a chance to work with the wailers and his wife Rita Marley. I will never forget the moment when she told me that I reminded her of his husband. Wow!

• ​The Jewish­Arab Peace Song (w/ English subtitles)
  There are many Israelis, Palestinians and Arabs working for peace which we do not get to see on TV on regular bases. This song reminds me that we CAN all be one living in peace and harmony with the power of music. Live our lives like brothers and sisters.

• “Father, Son” by Peter ​Gabriel
  A true family project​. Beautiful song about son and father and love for one another. We are all sons, fathers, daughters and mothers. Peter Gabriel is an angel as I witnessed what he has done and still dose with his music to make the world a better place for us all. He is an tour inspiration for all. Much love and respect.

• ​”Chahunga Main Tujhe ­ Dosti” ­ Classic Bollywood movie song
  By ­Sudhir Kumar & Sushil Kumar​. This is a song from movie “Dosti (Friendship)” which changed my life. It had so much effect on me as a child and still do today. (40 years later!) I still cry every time I hear this song. | ***Watch this movie it will change your life.***

• “Imagine” by John Lennon
  I don’t think this song really needs any explanation. John Lennon, I think he is still alive in all of us.

• “Jailer” by Asa­
  One of my wife’s favorites. Asa is a great singer song writer from Nigeria with important messages in her words.

• “Beautiful Flower” by India Arie
  As a father of two daughters, empowering song for young girls are important to me. There should be more songs like this in main stream. Wishing every single woman on this earth to realize their own inner power and beauty.