There is no denying the crowd-pulling power of Jamaican music, at home and overseas. However, within Jamaica, far too often music events which pull in the larger crowds have generated as much negative publicity because of lyrical or literal violence as they have provided excitement for those who attend.

So yesterday's Gleaner main story, about the $27 million which has been raised so far by deejay Orville 'Shaggy' Burrell from last Saturday's benefit concert for the Bustamante Hospital for Children, was immensely encouraging in more ways than one. Obviously, the sum that has been raised is impressive, this at a time when Jamaica is feeling the effects of the worldwide economic slowdown. In addition, however, the utilisation of Jamaican music for more than passing pleasure, to spread a particular perception of 'righteousness' or generate money for flagrant consumption, is also heart-warming.

At the same time, we are aware of other initiatives by popular performers, such as singer Richie Stephens' support of the Savanna-la-Mar Infirmary and deejay Capleton's donations to several organisations in St Mary.

And, as Shaggy said, all the money pledged has not yet been collected, so the expectation is that there is more great news to come for the hospital and the vast number of persons it serves.

Pleased with transparency

We commend Shaggy and the many musical friends who performed at last Saturday's benefit concert and are pleased with the transparency of the donation process.

Still, Shaggy's effort does raise a concern, that of inadequate support for the hospital in the first place. The Bustamante Hospital for Children is the only facility of its kind in Jamaica and hence would, we expect, be high on the list of organisations to benefit from the generosity of individuals and corporations. And, no doubt, it has received support. Whatever has been given to the hospital, though, has been far from enough.

Despite initiatives such as local activities on International Volunteer Day and community service stipulations for students at organisations such as the University of Technology, the spirit of volunteerism has yet to gain a firm footing in this country. In addition, many people who have the capacity to give personally, or channel funds from organisations of which they are a part, are not generally inclined to give to organisations such as the Bustamante Hospital for Children.

We do hope, though, that Shaggy's philanthropic effort stimulates a more giving spirit not only in individuals and organisations which have the capacity to make a difference, but also the entertainment fraternity, which has the capacity not only to influence minds, but also generate significant amounts of money.

The opinions on this page, except for the above, do not necessarily reflect the views of The Gleaner. To respond to a Gleaner editorial, email us: editor@gleanerjm.com or fax: 922-6223. Responses should be no longer than 400 words. Not all responses will be published.