Sultans of String are sharing their song “I’m Free” from their REFUGE project in conjunction with the UN International Day of Hope July 12. “In a world facing growing unrest, widening social divisions, and persistent economic and environmental challenges, the global community continues to seek values that unite rather than divide. Among these, hope stands out as a deeply powerful and universally resonant force. Recognizing this, the United Nations General Assembly has designated 12 July as the International Day of Hope—a day to celebrate and promote hope as a guiding principle for individuals, communities, and nations alike.”
“I’m Free” features Madagascar-born Donné Roberts and the Mississauga Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Denis Mastromonaco, with orchestration by Ben Bolt-Martin.
REFUGE is a collaboration with over 30 musicians, including Majd Sukkar, Leen Hamo, Tamar Ilana, Padideh Ahrarnejad, Saskia Tomkins, Ahmed Moneka, Juan Carlos Medrano, Robi Botos, Ifrah Mansour, Demetrios Petsalakis, Imad Al Taha, Amir Amiri, Béla Fleck, Dr. Duke Redbird and others on wide-ranging treatise on displaced peoples.
Addressing the struggles of life on Mother Earth has always inspired Toronto-based quintet, Sultans of String. On their visionary seventh and eighth albums, Refuge and Sanctuary, Sultans of String bring their unique brand of musical synergy and collaboration to bear on songs that speak to the challenges facing the world’s displaced peoples–their stories, their songs, their persistence and their humanity.
Joined by an international cast, some of whom are recent immigrants to North America, the celebrated quintet immerses themselves in the plight of the international refugee on Refuge, and the humanitarian response that should greet everyone in search of a home.
“This project is centered around the positive contributions of refugees and new immigrants to North America,” says bandleader Chris McKhool (ancestral name Makhoul), whose Lebanese grandfather stowed away on a ship bound for North America a century ago.
“We’re collaborating with special guests on the project who are newcomers to this land, Indigenous artists, as well as global talents who have been ambassadors for peace. We wish to celebrate the successes of those who make the journey here and bring their extraordinary talents with them. We hope the conversations we can have as musicians will provide a model for peace that will inspire our politicians and citizens.”