Aside from the countless lives that have been lost, one of most heartbreaking consequences of this pandemic is the staggering number of people who have lost jobs and remain unemployed. To add insult to injury, while major corporations received financial benefits from the government, many small businesses were left to fend for themselves amidst a crumbling economy. Thankfully, some major corporations are stepping up and showing heart by lending a hand to small business owners. Now Crown Royal throws its diadem into the ring with the help of Ari Lennox and Anthony Ramos.
The two artists – who both dropped debut albums in 2019 – joined forces in the studio for a killer remake of Sly & The Family Stone's "If You Want Me to Stay." Over a funky bass line, Ari and Anthony bring their "A" game (pun intended) and blow us away with fiery vocals dripping in soul. While the original is about a romantic relationship, the singers repurpose the track to give voice to small businesses around the country. "I'm about to go/ And then you'll know / For me to stay here, I've got to be me," Ms. Lennox sings. In similar fashion, Mr. Ramos encourages us to support our community shops, warning, "You can't take me for granted and smile."
Ramos explains that their partnership with Crown Royal will support "a mission to save the bars, clubs and stages across the country in danger of being lost forever due to this pandemic." For every stream of the song, Crown Royal will donate $1 to Main Street Relief Fund in partnership with small business advocate group The Main Street Alliance. Additionally, both artists have committed to donating their personal royalties from the song to this worthy cause.
You can show your support by downloading "If You Want Me to Stay" and helping to spread the word. While you're feeling generous, help Ramos support an unemployed NYC barber named Anthony Payne by checking out his latest single "Stop," and donating to Maynes Hair Grooming Salon.
