(VP RECORDS, NEW YORK) – Reggae singer/songwriter Duane Stephenson was recently invited by the World Food Program (WFP) to perform in honor of the United States Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton. The event took place at the George McGovern Leadership Award ceremony in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, October 5.
Stephenson was at the tail end of his U.S. tour with the Wailers, and the two parties previously teamed up for a song that manifested a partnership with the WFP. “The Wailers and I are partners with the World Food Program,” says Stephenson. “Our song ‘A Step for Mankind’ has helped to spread the message of the need for more action in addressing the issue of world hunger.”
Stephenson was thus invited to perform at the ceremony that included political dignitaries and social activists from around the world at the prestigious event, where Secretary Clinton was presented with The George McGovern Leadership Award for her work to curb global hunger.
Stephenson reveals he is humbled and excited by the experience. “It’s so inspiring to be in the company of global politicians and dedicated corporate partners who share the same values and aspirations to eradicate hunger,” states Stephenson. “Food is a common bond that unites every single life form on this planet, we all require it to live, yet a billion people each night go to bed hungry and 25,000 of them die.”
Stephenson disclosed his work with the World Food Program will continue as he sees the issue of world hunger as one that is very important to him. “I was happy to be there to see Secretary Clinton get this award as she has fought for this issue for years now. Hunger affects a billion of our brothers, sisters and children in 80 countries. This award will bring added attention and raise awareness of the issue.”
Duane Stephenson just wrapped up touring the U.S. as the opening act for the legendary Wailers, and promoting his sophomore album Black Gold, released by VP Records on September 28, 2010. Black Gold is the highly anticipated follow-up to Stephenson’s debut album From August Town, which was released by VP Records in 2007 and was hailed as one of that year’s best reggae albums.
