New York: Over the course of three days, Nate Matias cycled the equivalent of 10,000 meters in elevation to support Global Voices, a community-driven media project. To accompany him on this formidable journey, community members from Global Voices curated a special playlist to keep his spirits high.
According to Global Voices, the playlist was a collaborative effort featuring diverse musical tastes and cultural backgrounds from around the world. Members of the community were invited to contribute their song choices and provide context on why they were significant. One standout contribution came from Lara AlMalakeh, who shared a song by Bu Kolthoum, a Syrian rapper gaining recognition in the Netherlands for his empowering messages, particularly for women.
The playlist also included tracks like “Ibérica y Latina” by the Venezuelan band Gaélica. Shared by Estefanía Salazar, the song features sounds from various cultural influences that are part of Venezuela’s heritage. These musical selections reflect the rich mix of traditions and cultures that make up the Global Voices community.
Candice Stewart, a contributor from the Caribbean team at Global Voices, curated a list of Caribbean-inspired hits to energize Nate throughout his cycling challenge. Her selections drew inspiration from her homeland, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago, among others. The playlist included spiritual and motivational tracks designed to provide blessings, guidance, and a winners mindset.
Additionally, Pamela Ephraim chose an energizing Afrobeats track, “Active” by Asake and Travis Scott, which uses Yoruba and Pidgin expressions to emphasize themes of strength and resilience. This track was meant to motivate Nate to keep pushing towards the finish line of his virtual Everest climb.
In a nod to the origins of the challenge, Global Voices members in Nepal compiled a playlist featuring Nepali language songs, further enriching the cultural tapestry of the musical compilation that accompanied Nate on his remarkable journey.