Today I saw a commercial for VH1 DIVAS 2009 that will premier on September 17, 2009. VH1 DIVAS, originally airing anually from 1998-2004, was created to raise money for Save the Music (I wonder if VH1 heard my request for a return of Save the Music!?!). After a five year hiatus, the series will return to feature 8 top female performers. It seems as though this time around, all of the performers are in their youth or early adulthood. Granted only 6 artists have been confirmed: Kelly Clarkson, Leona Lewis, Adele, Miley Cyrus, Jordin Sparks, and Jennifer Hudson, but the remaining two better be veterans for this to be a “divas” show! And by veteran I mean the artist better have had at least 3 albums, 5 top 10 hits, and a number one single! That’s the definition of a veteran! We’ll see if VH1 passes my test for the remaining DIVAS – I doubt it, but it’s still nice to have a taste of the old VH1 back instead of all the whack, non-entertaining, low quality shows they feature during their normal programming hours! VH1 DIVAS is a start, but the channel has a long way to go…

For some reason, I have been thinking about VH1’s Save the Music for the last couple of days. I remember years ago when the foundation was founded and televised concerts were held to promote the foundation’s purpose. I specifically remember when *N Sync and Gloria Estefan performed Music of My Heart at a STM concert in the early 2000s. (Hey – I was a fan of boy bands. Don’t hold it against me!) As I sit here, I wonder why I have not heard about any recent concerts. After looking at the STM Twitter profile, I found a link to the Save the Music website and found out there are a list of cities that will host a summer tour. But, the tour is not televised! I realize that the foundation’s current strategy may be somewhat different than the previous strategy as it appears that the foundation relies heavily on donations and percentages of artist ticket sales. However, there are so many people that know nothing about Save the Music and it is time to get the word out!

I am personally thankful for the music programs that were offered in the schools I attended. I know for a fact that being in band helped mold me into the person I am today. Playing in my middle and high school bands taught me to be competitive, increased my math abilities, and enhanced my skills as a team player, among other things. I made a commitment years ago that I will give back and donate time and money to my high school band in years to come. I was quite young when I made that decision, but I realized the importance of music in a child’s life. My conclusion came partly from my own experiences and the presence of Save the Music.

Now it is Save the Music’s responsibily to promote their goals and purpose to a younger generation of music lovers and future influencers. After all, these are the individuals who require the educational programs and will give back when they are older and able.

I saw this LG sponsored commercial earlier and thought it was representative of the passion, love, and dedication for music that Save the Music fosters.