Sunset Special Markets (SSM) proudly released a one-of-a-kind full-length album, Songs For Freedom, a powerful compilation dedicated to animal and wildlife welfare. The album, spearheaded by SSM label head Don Lichterman in collaboration with his nonprofit organization, Sustainable Action Network (SAN), streamed across all major platforms and was available for purchase worldwide, with 100% of proceeds going directly to the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) to combat animal cruelty and drive meaningful legal reform.
Officially debuting on June 7th in 2016, Songs For Freedom was more than just a music collection—it was a movement. The 20-track album spanned generations of legendary artists while spotlighting emerging talents, all unified by a commitment to fighting animal abuse. From established icons like Bob Marley, The Smiths, and Gina Thompson to contemporary SSM artists such as Richtaste, Han Drabur, Respect, Joe Atman, Federal Moguls, and Mister Sir, the album bridged the past and the present with a focus on advocacy through art. Notably, the compilation included two bonus tracks and high-profile remixes, including contributions from Boy George, Amos, Gavin Friday, and DJ X vs. Sonic Solution’s remix of Supertramp’s classic The Logical Song [DJ Self Remix].
“This project was about taking a stand against the exploitation and abuse of animals in every context, whether for entertainment, performance, or neglect,” explained Don Lichterman. “Music is a universal language, and with Songs For Freedom, we raised awareness while creating tangible impact. All proceeds, from sales, streams, and digital downloads, went directly to the ALDF’s work changing laws to protect animals and wildlife in the United States.”
The album also introduced emerging global artists who were actively involved in animal welfare. Vicky Kiely, a Cove Monitor for Ric O’Barry’s Dolphin Project, contributed original tracks alongside Gaia’s Eye featuring Azucena Azul, Shanel, and Simon Dabbicco. These contributions brought fresh perspectives and urgent storytelling to the project, highlighting real-world activism through music.
The setlist included a carefully curated mix of advocacy-driven songs:
- The Logical Song [DJ Self Remix] – Roger Hodgson / DJ X vs. Sonic Solution
- Pain – Simon Dabbicco
- Moonriser – Han Drabur
- Please, Stop This (Stage N2) – Mister Sir
- The Sea – Richtaste
- Big Cat – Shanel
- Mercy – Vicki Kiely
- Tell A Friend – Gaia’s Eye
- Prison Shit – Vegan Boss
- Furious – Federal Moguls
- African Life – No-Limitt
- Cats – Joe Atman
- Let Love Shine – Amos
- Kings and Queens – Respect
- Angel – Gavin Friday
- I’ll Get There – Gina Thompson
- Anthem For Animals – Gaia’s Eye feat. Azucena Azul
- Massacre at the Cove – Vicki Kiely
Each track was selected to underscore the urgent need for animal protection laws while showcasing outstanding performances. From emotive ballads to high-energy anthems and creative remixes, the album spanned multiple genres, ensuring there was something for every listener.
SSM committed not only the music but also the full resources of the label to this cause. Every expense related to production, distribution, promotion, press, and media coverage was donated, ensuring that every dollar earned directly supported the ALDF’s mission. The project exemplified how music could transcend entertainment and serve as a catalyst for social change.
Don Lichterman, a long-time advocate against animal cruelty, particularly campaigns such as the dolphin hunting season off the coast of Taiji, Japan, continued to combine his passion for music with activism through Songs For Freedom, empowering both fans and artists to contribute to meaningful legal reform for animals and wildlife.
The album streamed and was available for purchase across all major platforms, and fans were encouraged to follow and support legislative change by visiting the ALDF at aldf.org. By engaging with this project, listeners were not just enjoying a unique music experience—they were actively participating in the fight to protect animals and wildlife worldwide.
Songs For Freedom stood as a landmark SSM release, proving that music could be a force for compassion, advocacy, and tangible social impact, uniting legendary acts and emerging voices under one powerful cause.