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Peter Gabriel re-records ‘Biko’ for online event Playing for Change

Peter Gabriel recently re-recorded his 1980 protest classic 'Biko' with help from 25 musicians from around the globe, including Beninese vocalist and activist Angélique Kidjo, Yo-Yo Ma, the Cape Town Ensemble, Sebastian Robertson, and bassist Meshell Ndegeocello.

The song was recorded especially for Peace Through Music: A Global Event for Social Justice, which took place in December 2020, hosted on the Playing for Change social media channels.

The event was part of the activities to commemorate the United Nations 75th anniversary, and championed the full protection and promotion of human rights for all.

A host of musicians participated, including Aloe Blacc, Angélique Kidjo, Annie Lennox, Becky G, Brandi Carlile with Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, Carlos Santana and Cindy Blackman Santana, Gabi Melim, Gary Clark Jr., Jack Johnson, Jim James, Keb’ Mo’, Keith Richards, Mavis Staples, Nathaniel Rateliff, Rhiannon Giddens, Ringo Starr, Robbie Robertson, Robert Randolph, Run The Jewels with Josh Homme, Sheila E., Skip Marley and Cedella Marley, The War and Treaty, Yo-Yo Ma and more.

The new version of ‘Biko’ premiered as part of the event, and the stand-alone video is now available to watch again in support of the Playing For Change Foundation.

“You can blow out a candle, but you can't blow out a fire. Once the flames begin to catch, the wind will blow it higher.” – Peter Gabriel, Biko

By Online Editor

Main image: Peter Gabriel recording 'Biko' in The Writing Room at Real World Studios in November 2020. Photo credit: York Tillyer.

Published on Sat, 13 February 21

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