Singer-songwriter Gloria Gaynor reached deep into her gospel background for a moving livestreamed concert as part of the "Together At Home" virtual series on Thursday.
The unwavering clarity of Gaynor’s voice shone through ongoing technical difficulties as she performed the songs "Joy Comes in the Morning," "Day One," and "Only You Can Do," and covered "Way Maker" by Sinach.
The Grammy-winning artist repeatedly encouraged her fans to visit globalcitizen.org/coronavirus to "take meaningful action" to support the World Health Organization (WHO) in its fight to stop the spread of coronavirus.
"This is so much more than a concert," she said. "We’re trying to help the WHO get the funds they need to fight the coronavirus."
"I’m happy to join you today from home while we’re practicing social distancing," she added.
Gaynor ended her set with the world-changing mega-hit "I Will Survive," a fitting song to play as the world struggles with the coronavirus pandemic.
"Let’s not let this coronavirus interrupt our lives any more than we can help," she said. "Please help, do anything you can, tell your friends, family, loved ones to give to help with the coronavirus pandemic."
The disco queen ended her set with a call to action and painted a picture of a world that has survived the pandemic.
"I hope to see you very soon, walking up and down the streets, in the clubs, and especially in church," she said.
The "Together At Home" campaign was launched on March 16 by Global Citizen and the WHO. Artists, actors, and influencers have joined the campaign to bring people comfort, encourage them to practice social distancing, and show support for the WHO’s COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund.
Globally, more than 900,000 people have been infected by the coronavirus and 45,693 people have died from it, according to the WHO. The WHO is working to minimize the impact of the coronavirus by supporting health care workers, advising governments, and researching treatments and vaccines.
The best way everyday people can help curb the pandemic is by practicing social distancing to flatten the curve of coronavirus. When people stay home, the less likely they are to become infected, and the sooner its spread will peter out.
By visiting Global Citizen’s "Together At Home" campaign page, you can learn more about coronavirus and find ways to get involved in your community.
The "Together At Home" series has featured dozens of artists and influencers, including Chris Martin, John Legend, Chloe X Halle, H.E.R., Jon Batiste, The Lumineers, Grace Weber, and more.
There are many more virtual events to come this week, including Friday’s lineup:
- Dermot Kennedy at 8 a.m. PT / 11 a.m. ET
- Ha*Ash at 4 p.m PT / 7 p.m. ET
You can see all of Global Citizen's COVID-19 coverage here.
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