The 365 Project

[Larry Kooyman]

The 365 PROJECT

The one thing about being in Nashville is that there is never a shortage of amazing talent and moving music that tugs on all the heartstrings. I’ve always marveled at those with the ability to create such amazing compilations of lyrics and music.  This weekend I had the privilege of meeting such an individual. But instead of dreams of stardom and riches, his goals were somewhat different. Stricken with an relentless urge to make a difference for a friend with stage 4 cancer, Russell Wolff has committed to writing, composing and producing one song a day for an entire year. 

 

That is 365 songs!  To put this inperspective, if any is really needed, songs sometimes take days, weeks, months or even years to complete. Recording them sometimes takes longer. Imagine putting in a full days work everyday for an entire year, no weekends off, no sick days and no holidays. Russell’s daunting goal is an amazing feat to accomplish.  Talking to him about why he would set a goal so unimaginable was inspiring to say the least. If raising money for cancer research in support for a friend in need wasn't enough of a reason to take on such an amazing challenge, Russell’s hope is that this project will inspire others to do something every day to help someone else.  Perhaps with Russell’s inspiration, this world will be abetter place.  At the very least it will have some really great music. 

 

To support the 365 Project, Dani and I are pledging $1 a song publically to Russell and his cause.  Now money isn’t the only thing that can help. Russell is currently doing research on the right charity to donate to where the proceeds really benefit those in need. More than anything, the project needs publicity... to get the word out nationally.  Russell’s hope is to get stories in papers, tv, radio, NPR, CNN, perhaps by the mid-year point, bring the project to Letterman or Conan. I am asking for the National Martial Arts community to step up and help if help can be provided.  If you can pledge $.25, $.50, $1 or more a song, lend advice on a charitable organization, spread the word to your network of contacts or just be giving of your prayers to the cause, It would be greatly appreciated.  Each song can be listened to free at www.russellwolff.com .  If you wish to contact Russell he can be reached at [e-mail].

 

“Don't die with your song still inside you”

~Pete Bowie