Louisiana hospital plays Bill Withers' 'Lean on Me' every time they send home a recovered COVID-19 patient
These are terrible times currently that we live in, with the dreaded coronavirus outbreak that has affected a majority of the globe negatively. However, there's one thing that's managed to give hope and support to people across the globe and a sense of belonging and faith and that is late singer Bill Withers' voice.
The song has become a lockdown anthem of sorts offering people the motivation they need to tide over the devastation that the virus has caused. It has recently come to light that his hit 'Lean on Me' is played over loudspeakers at Lafayette General Hospitals, every time a patient walks out after recovering from COVID-19.
Patricia Thompson, Director of Communications, confirmed this news about the hospital celebrating each recovery in a special way. "It's such a good song. When it plays, it cues staff to meet the patient in the lobby to celebrate with them as they are wheeled away." Thompson said.
Part of the lyrics include:
"Sometimes in our lives, we all have pain
We all have sorrow
But if we are wise
We know that there’s always tomorrow
Lean on me, when you’re not strong
And I’ll be your friend
I’ll help you carry on
For it won’t be long
‘Til I’m gonna need
Somebody to lean on"
Composer and singer Withers died at the age of 81 on March 30, 2020, following heart complications. His passing left the entire industry as well as his fans shocked and in mourning.
Justin Timberlake shared a couple of photos of himself with the late legend with a long grieving caption. The 'Mirrors' singer had poured his heart out as he lost one his "biggest idols".
A part of the caption read, "You shined a light that was so unique and warm. I looked up to you the same way I looked up to my Poppa... and he was my favorite human in the world,".
Singer Pharell Williams shared a photo of Bill from the olden days with the caption, "Your music was/is/always will be medicinal. Your sound intersected so many styles and influences, the best ingredients to get through rough times and make good times greater."
"Led by a voice that was as unique as your pen and chord choices. Your advice to so many of us, who were blessed to meet/know you, was sound. You will be missed, big brother. Rest with the master now. Continued blessings and favor to your family, love ones and admirers," he added.
Chance the Rapper, Piers Morgan, Lin Manuel Miranda and others were also among people who grieved the loss of the icon.