At the Atlanta Day Shelter for Women and Children, R&B star Musiq Soulchild was on a clear-cut mission to give more love. It was a gray autumn day, and for these people, the weather outside mirrored their current situations. But with an internationally known entertainer in their midst — everyone was all smiles. “Give More Love Day is simply something that I started to give me yet another reason to show and give love to people,” the singer said. “I’m doing my best to make it a day that more than just myself and a small group of people celebrate.” Musiq passed out autographed pictures, toys and school supplies to all who attended and went from room to room at Hughes Spalding Hospital, comforting patients and encouraging staff.
“The purpose is to encourage and inspire more people to … give more love. I hopefully can be an influence to more people.” Soulchild is working to partner with corporations to donate to facilities for embattled women and children, emphasizing the connection between himself and the community. “Are y’all enjoying yourselves?” he says a young family waiting in one of the hospital rooms. He passes out some items and cracks some jokes with their teenage daughter. “I’m not your doctor!” he says. “I know you’re thinking ‘I don’t want him to work on me — just because you sing songs, doesn’t mean you can heal the world!’” Everyone’s spirits were lifted and that was apparently what Musiq Soulchild wanted.
The community needs more than money and empty promises. What artists have to realize is that seeing your face and making a connection means more than PSAs. “Everything that I do musically is always with the intention of inspiring and entertaining the people in the community,” he says. “I do everything that I do out of love for [them.] I make music for people all over the world, but it starts with the hood. I do what I can to give back to where I come from.” –todd williams