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‘Everyday People’

A Reason To Smile

Dan Rather and Team Steady Feb 15

Sly and the Family Stone. Credit: Getty Images

“Everyday People” is a protest song wrapped in joy. The sunny pop song admonishes without anger, suggesting we celebrate our differences. It is a message many people need to hear right now.

The song was released 57 years ago this weekend and became Sly and the Family Stone’s first No. 1 hit. It is this week’s reason to smile.

The rock-pop-funk band emerged from the Bay Area in 1968, preaching a message of peace and equity. Sly and the Family Stone was the first racially integrated band in rock history. Their hit, “Everyday People,” reflected their ethos.

Musically and lyrically, the song uses a variety of techniques to deliver its theme of inclusivity. The use of the cadence of the playground taunt “na na-na boo boo” mocks the futility of hating each other for being who we are. The song also includes the lyric “Different strokes for different folks,” cementing it as a well-known catchphrase.

We have chosen a more recent version of the song to share because it perfectly embodies the very message the song is meant to convey.

Playing for Change, a multimedia music project featuring musicians and singers from around the globe, produced this video. The mission of Playing for Change is to connect the world through music. Through its foundation, it provides music and art programs for children in underserved communities in 17 countries.

Playing for Change’s “Everyday People” features students alongside artists who teach and inspire them, including Jack Johnson, Jason Mraz, Paula Abdul, Misty Copeland, Yo-Yo Ma, Elizabeth Banks, Keb’ Mo’, Josh Groban, and others.

We hope it brings a smile to your Sunday.

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No matter how you subscribe, I thank you for reading, watching, and listening.

Stay Steady,

Dan