The day the music went online
One thing I, and surely many others, are missing during this time of isolation is live music. Gone are the days when we could head down to a bar and catch a local band ply their trade or gather a gang to see our favourite big name playing in a venue. But that doesn't mean the music has stopped—it’s still possible to get your live fix, thanks to the scores of musicians and singers offering free online shows.
When actor Gal Gadot got her pals together online to sing John Lennon's "Imagine" she became the object of some ridicule, but her need to spread music right now is relatable. Musicians from every genre have begun playing regular gigs and sharing moments of genius online.
They may not all have a piano in their garden like Elton John, but superstars and local legends alike are jumping on the gigging-at-home bandwagon. Gary Lightbody (Snow Patrol), Paddy Casey and Hozier are among the Irish contingent of stellar musicians to take us away from our COVID-19 blues, while collaborative efforts, such as Lady Gaga's Global Citizen World Health Organisation fundraiser, are also bringing musical joy.
Irish charity Pieta House was the recent recipient of fundraising efforts by some of Ireland's best-known music makers and many more gigs, trad sessions and DJ sets are happening every day. Social media platforms like Zoom and Houseparty are home to regular music events, while Facebook groups are organising mini-festivals such as Rock the Lockdown.
From my musician mate Charlie Livingstone churning out some newly written tunes to Gary Barlow hosting singalongs with some famous friends, the internet is awash with live, life-affirming music to brighten our days. Even my local theatre group here in Kuala Lumpur, the KL Players, is getting in on the act with a collaborative effort entitled Our New Normal.
We may have to wait a while before being able to experience the "real thing" but for now, getting my festival fix in my living room is an almost adequate substitute. In fact, there's one major advantage—no queue for the bar or toilets!