Kate Miller-Heidke, Stonefield, latest additions to global refugee concerts

Kate Miller-Heidke and Stonefield are the two latest Australian acts to be added to Amnesty International’s Give A Home global concerts as a show of refugee solidarity

1000 artists such as Ed Sheeran – major acts who are compassionate about the refugee issue, as well as musicians who were refugees themselves – will play 300 shows in music fans’ homes in over 200 cities on September 20.

The idea was launched on June 20 on World Refugee Day.

Amnesty International’s research shows that 80% of people around the world are open to welcoming refugees, yet governments are failing to do their part.

The Give A Home series, where music fans offer their houses for the concert, is being done in conjunction with Solar, an entertainment company which hosts shows at homes.

In Melbourne, Miller-Heidke plays with Sampa The Great and Toothless, while Stonefield teams up with Jakubi, a band made up of brothers and cousins.

As reported earlier in TMN, the Sydney shows feature Ngaiire, The Jezabels and Megan Washington.

The latest 50 additions, announced overnight, also included Hozier, BØRNS, Tom Odell, Laura Mvula, Esperanza Spalding, Joan As Police Woman, Peggy Seeger and Ryan Cabrera.

Hozier, who will perform in Dublin, said: “What makes Sofar special to me is that it can take place anywhere hospitality cares to rear its head.

“There’s something wonderful about sharing a live music experience in the warmth and closeness of someone’s home, which was my experience with Sofar.

“I’m thrilled to be taking part in the Give a Home gigs, a global act of welcome which embodies the hospitable spirit of Sofar with the important work of Amnesty International.”

The Orchestra of Syrian Musicians, who will perform in London, added: “Music defies borders and politics. We are proud to be one of hundreds of acts who will come together in cities around the world to support refugees.

“Music is the ultimate form of solidarity, and as there are several refugees in the Orchestra of Syrian Musicians, we are especially excited to take part in this celebration of unity.”

Fans have until September 10 to apply for tickets through sofarsounds.com/giveahome.