Musical Collaboration Revives 'Blue Skies' to Boost Economic Recovery in North Carolina

Reviving ‘Blue Skies’ for Economic Resilience in North Carolina

In a remarkable collaboration, renowned musicians from North Carolina have come together to reimagine the classic song ‘Blue Skies’. Marking the six-month anniversary of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact, this initiative not only celebrates the artistic talent within the state but also aims to fuel economic recovery for the affected communities.

Launched by the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC), this project is integral to the 'All in North Carolina' campaign, which highlights the state as a premier location for living, working, and conducting business. The campaign seeks to shed light on the resilience and indomitable spirit of North Carolinians following the natural disaster that left many communities in turmoil.

The track features an ensemble of celebrated artists, including Jake Lenderman of MJ Lenderman, Amelia Meath from Sylvan Esso, and Sam Beam, better known as Iron & Wine, all of whom share deep roots in the state. Together, they present a powerful message of hope and renewal through their music, showcasing the robust artistic community that thrives in North Carolina.

In addition to their musical contributions, the collective has pledged a generous donation of $100,000 to the North Carolina Community Foundation. These funds are earmarked to support ongoing disaster relief efforts for those hardest hit by Hurricane Helene, ensuring that the benefits of this collaboration extend to those in dire need.

Christopher Chung, CEO of EDPNC, expressed pride in the project, stating, “This initiative is a testament to the creativity and collaborative spirit of our state. It not only raises funds for recovery but also highlights the exceptional talent we have in North Carolina.” By integrating music with economic messaging, the partnership aims to attract businesses and talents to the 54,000 square miles that comprise the state.

Emphasizing Hope and The Power of Community

The song 'Blue Skies' holds a special place in the hearts of many. Originally penned by Irving Berlin and later popularized by icons like Bing Crosby and Ella Fitzgerald, it’s a familiar tune characterized by its optimistic lyrics and melody. In this reimagined version, the song serves as an anthem for recovery and rejuvenation. The accompanying video provides a visual narrative of North Carolina's thriving economy, underscoring how investments and tourism enrich the state.

Viewers can catch glimpses of the diverse industries at play in North Carolina, from cutting-edge technology to robust agricultural sectors, all framed within the context of economic vitality and community spirit. The campaign's rollout includes placements across various streaming platforms and social media, ensuring it reaches a wide audience nationwide.

Jason Ross, lead singer of Seven Mary Three and a key figure in this musical collaboration, shared his enthusiasm about the project. “Living in North Carolina since 2001 has truly inspired this endeavor. Collaborating with friends and talented musicians, we saw an opportunity to create something meaningful in the wake of adversity,” he remarked. The synergy among the artists has paved the way for a collective effort that embodies the rich tradition of mutual support within the North Carolina music scene.

Having initially launched in 2022, the 'All in NC' marketing campaign has been a comprehensive effort to promote the state's attributes. Working alongside local marketing agency, Mythic, the campaign captures the essence of North Carolina's varied landscapes, vibrant workforce, and thriving industries, effectively positioning it as a desirable place for business and residence.

As the long-term recovery from Hurricane Helene continues, initiatives like these play a critical role in both healing and economic revitalization. The commitment displayed by the music community and its collaboration with EDPNC signals a hopeful future for North Carolina.

For more insights and to watch the full video of 'Blue Skies,' click here on YouTube.

About EDPNC

The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina is a nonprofit organization dedicated to furthering the state’s economic interests. By fostering business growth and job creation, the EDPNC engages with a diverse set of stakeholders across various sectors to enrich the quality of life for all North Carolinians. They operate under a contract with the North Carolina Department of Commerce and maintain active partnerships at local, regional, and state levels. To learn more, visit EDPNC's website.