…By Judah Olanisebee for TDPel Media.
Tony Christie Records “Thank You For Being A Friend” for Carers
Tony Christie, the 80-year-old musician, has revealed that a new re-recorded version of the song “Thank You For Being A Friend” has been created to express gratitude to carers who often go unnoticed.
The song was recorded as part of Music For Dementia’s Thank You Day campaign, featuring a lineup of renowned singers and producers, including Sting, Nile Rodgers, Graham Gouldman, and Graeme Pleeth.
Expressing Gratitude to Carers
Christie explained that the purpose of the song is twofold: to raise awareness and to show appreciation to carers.
He emphasized that the song is dedicated to carers, thanking them for being a friend to individuals with dementia.
The re-recorded version of “Thank You For Being A Friend” will be a central part of this year’s Thank You Day celebrations on July 2, organized by Music For Dementia to honor carers.
Sharing his Personal Experience with Dementia
Speaking about his own experience with dementia, Christie shared how his wife noticed he was forgetting things, including people’s names, which led him to seek medical advice.
After undergoing tests, it was confirmed that he had the onset of dementia.
Christie now takes strong medication to cope with the condition and is managing it to the best of his abilities.
Making a Positive Impact and Removing Stigma
Christie revealed that since discussing his dementia diagnosis on television, people have approached him in the street and supermarkets, expressing gratitude for his openness.
He recounted a conversation with Steph on “Steph’s Packed Lunch,” where they dedicated a whole segment to discussing his condition.
The response from individuals who are now more comfortable talking about dementia has been overwhelming, as it has helped remove the stigma associated with the condition.
Recording with Carers and Release Details
For the recording of “Thank You For Being A Friend,” five carers from different parts of the UK were invited to the studio to participate as backing singers.
Therese Poteratchi and Zoe Antoniades from West London, Katie Neal from Oxford, Gez Ossai from Cheltenham, and Graeme Sutherland from Glasgow joined Tony Christie for the recording.
The song and its accompanying music video were released on Tuesday.
Additionally, a nationwide singalong of the single will take place at 12:55 pm on Thank You Day, bringing people together to show appreciation.
Thank You Day and Music For Dementia
This Sunday marks the third annual Thank You Day in the UK.
Music For Dementia reports that the event brought together nine million people in 2022 through festivals, street parties, care homes, and choir performances.
The organization aims to use the power of music to enhance the lives of people with dementia and their carers, fostering a sense of community and appreciation.