Times Square NYC, often called the crossroads of the world, was the scene for the “Pause The World For Peace”, a 5 hour concert celebrating the 40th Anniversary of International Peace Day declared by the United Nations in 1984. Amidst the dazzling billboards, the vibrant blue skyline and the 10 foot Friendship and Peace Tree loomed the giant stage where the festivities took place. The concert was hosted by the Good News Corporation and Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine and produced by Paul Sladkus and OMMM. The live and worldwide streamed concert’s opening talent was the world renowned film and television soundtrack architect and pop recording artist Randy Edelman.
Randy performed his beautiful “Thanksgiving Prayer”, a swirling, spirited, and sentimental hope for peace and a shinning gift to the world.
“We must March to the music that lifts souls from despair
Send a clear message speeding through the air.
Send a Thanksgiving prayer, in hopes that they might hear us.
A thanksgiving prayer to those who can’t be free.
A thanksgiving prayer and hope it stretches across the sea.”
Undoubtedly Music Royalty, Randy Edelman has scored over 100 films and television themes including “My Cousin Vinny”, “Ghostbusters ll”, “Last of the Mohicans”, “MacGyver” and an endless list of others. His pop songs have been covered by sone of the most illustrious artists such as Barry Manilow (A Weekend in New England), Patti LaBelle (Isn’t it a Shame), Nelly (My Place), The Carpenters (You), and again the never-randending list continues.
Those who also performed included AY Young, Grammy winner Jilly Yeah, Keith Shocklee, founder of Public Enemy, The King Moore Unity Project, Mandy Mayhem, Heidi Little, award winning international cross-over artist Giorgia Fumanti and many others. Ringo Starr began the broadcast with a virtual plea for a moment of silence for peace and cease fire. Other virtual messages came from Leonardo DiCaprio, Tony Orlando, Michael, Douglas, Shakira, Dr. Jane, Goodall, and Stevie Wonder.
The official website for Randy Edelman may be found at https://www.randyedelman.com/