Photo: Downtime users, Manchester Orchestra.
Of all of the things on a rock star's busy schedule, "hurry up and wait" may be the least glamorous--but it sure can be useful. As of today, musical artists have a go-to positive outlet specifically designed to make the most out of their downtime. It's called Downtime. We like.
What it is: "a very simple and nonintrusive way" for bands to show off their charity of choice on Facebook with a custom app more streamlined, focused and user-friendly than just the occasional cause-oriented wall post. Former Colombia Records A&R Manager Jay Harren came up with the idea after witnessing a whole lotta talented artists twiddling their thumbs while waiting for the next gig. "They worked hard for sure, but there was a lot of in-between time that could be put to good use," Harren says.
So he decided to start linking up nonprofits with musicians who have time and publicity to share. In the process, he found his own passion project. "I realized that I too had some time to give, and I wasn't doing anything with it. That became my cause--connecting others who had influence with charities and nonprofits that could really use the help."
Plenty of bands are already on board--Manchester Orchestra, We The Kings, Charlotte Sometimes and Feather & Belle among them--supporting the full spectrum of causes through organizations like Heifer International, Malaria No More and the ASPCA. Some artists ask for a little help finding an org that speaks to their interests; others make special requests for connections (like Kevin Devine, who had his sights set on Food Not Bombs). The goal: Find the match that will genuinely fuel artists to make the very most of their downtime--and in the process, inspire the rest of us to do the same.
Check out the links below for videos from participating artists, with more to come soon!
