The power of music can bring people together, and in the case of The Miraculous Love Kids, it has also provided a glimmer of hope and a chance for a better future. The non-profit organization, which previously served as Afghanistan’s only school of music for girls and young women, recently released a moving rendition of Tom Petty’s “I Won’t Back Down,” featuring some notable guest musicians.
The video features the young girls of The Miraculous Love Kids, along with country music star Blake Shelton, guitarist Joe Walsh, bassist Timothy B. Schmit, and drummer Matt Sorum. The song’s lyrics, which encourage perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity, take on new meaning in the context of the girls’ experiences.
“May music always bring you girls the inspiration and connection to a higher power that delivers you strength and joy,” Walsh said during a press release. “I’m grateful to have shared this moment with you all. Peace and love.”
The Miraculous Love Kids was founded in 2010 and provided a much-needed outlet for young women in Afghanistan to express themselves and learn valuable skills through music education. However, with the Taliban’s takeover of the country in August 2021, the future of the organization and its students became uncertain.
Thankfully, the girls featured in the “I Won’t Back Down” video were able to escape and are currently living as refugees in Pakistan. The release of the video not only showcases the girls’ immense talent and potential but also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by many in Afghanistan and the urgent need for support and aid.
The organization’s mission remains vital, and the hope is that it can continue to provide opportunities for young women to pursue their passions and thrive despite difficult circumstances. The collaboration with Shelton, Walsh, Schmit, and Sorum serves as a powerful tribute to the resilience of the human spirit and the unifying power of music.
“Lanny is a saint for being a part of these girls’ lives by helping them move forward through music,” Schmit added. “Even after all they’ve experienced in their young lives, you can see and feel their beautiful life forces shining through.”
The video, which was released on YouTube, has received an overwhelmingly positive response, with viewers praising the girls’ talent and the emotional impact of the performance. The Miraculous Love Kids continue to inspire through their dedication to music and their unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.