Conversations with Missy: Andre Rodriguez of Coat Check Girl
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Music. It is one of the very few things in life that connects people from all walks of life. It transcends genders, languages, and race. It speaks for us when we have no words. Music is the way many communicate. For the songwriter, it could be the way they spread awareness. That is exactly what Coat Check Girl is doing, spreading awareness.
For those of us who live here in the US, we mostly go about our day focused on our own lives, not realizing that there are other places in the world that are not nearly as free to do the same thing. Andre and Alejandro Rodriguez are brothers from Venezuela that make up half of Coat Check Girl. While speaking with Andre, I asked him about things back home in Venezuela.
Venezuela is known as a country that has been kidnapped by a Neo-Communist movement, led the Castro Brothers from Cuba. Former Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, implemented an economic, social and political system that allowed their government the right to take over everything, gaining complete control of the country. Now under the control of Nicolas Maduro, it has become one of the most dangerous countries in the world. In their recent election, Venezuelan electoral authorities confirmed that the opposition has won a key two-thirds majority, which is necessary to challenge President Maduro. When I asked Andre what this meant for his family and friends still living there, his answer made me emotional. Listen as he discusses the very real and scary situation that his family and friends are a part of each day.
Coat Check Girl is raising awareness for the ongoing problems in Venezuela with their video "Yellow, Blue, Red". The title alone represents the colors of the Flag of Venezuela. This video shows a beautiful woman being tortured. Listening to Andre explain what each part of the video depicts. It is gut-wrenching and emotional and will leave you with shivers going down your spine. The love these brothers have for their family, friends and citizens of this once beautiful country are heartwarming.
Watch the video. Share this with your friends. Help raise awareness. Each of us can make a difference to those who are suffering and being abused. Stand with Coat Check Girl, raise hope for the Venezuelan people. Share this story. ~Missy
About Missy Wolf
Co-Founder, Editor, Journalist & Vice President of the American Country Music AssociationFrom an early age I knew music and entertainment were in my blood. I have always been enamored with the idea of being in this industry, though I never wanted to be a front and center "Star". Taking the audience behind the scenes for up close conversations with the artists they love is where I want to be. Life in lyrics has always been my style, so as my favorite country artist Wade Hayes sings, I am living my life and chasing my dreams! Conducting interviews, meeting talented people and sharing stories and adventure are my passion. My new favorite hashtag is #iaskyouanswer, so stay tuned for more interviews, articles and adventures!
