Going extra Nile for deeply personal cause
From Le Freak to Get Lucky, Nile Rodgers has played on countless pop anthems which have brought joy to millions around the world, helping them through both Good Times (pun intended) and bad.
So the Grammy-winning Chic founder is the perfect choice as a BBC Music Day ambassador and will appear on a One Show special.
This year’s theme is using the power of song to improve wellbeing, as well as aiming to bring music to everyone living with dementia by 2020. The brain disease has affected five members of Nile’s family, including his mother Beverly, 81.
He said: “My mom was diagnosed 13 years ago but when she hears my voice, she becomes so intellectually clear it’s mind-boggling.
“Music can be transformational for people with this condition. One day I took my mom shopping in a mall and as we passed stores which played music she sang the songs perfect pitch.
“At the facility where she resides, my mom leads all the singing. She’s like a star.”
Now in its fifth year, the BBC day sees hundreds of events organised around the country, with shows on radio, online and TV. Blue Peter will launch its first music badge to encourage children to learn an instrument – after all, picking up the guitar proved lucrative for Mr Rodgers.
He said: “It’s an incredible initiative. I’m delighted to highlight the important role music plays in the wellbeing of our society. Everyone faces challenges at one point or another and music can be your greatest ally at those important times.”