Goodnight Dad is a monologue read by illustrator and writer Mike Payne, with all net profits donated to the Yellow Ribbon Foundation.
How many times have we looked at the news on television, and thought to ourselves, “I wish I could do something!”
When Mike Payne, illustrator, writer and creator of the iconic Tatty Teddy from Me To You Bears, and the Charlie’s Ark range of audiobooks saw a news item on Sky News about another soldier being killed in Helmand Province, he did do something. He is hoping that it will generate much-needed funds for the Yellow Ribbon Foundation, which spreads awareness of and support for the British Armed Forces and their families and loved ones back home.
Read on ...
Mike, 65, from Worthing, was formerly a professional actor. In his acting days, he often performed an old-time music hall monologue written by Martyn Herbert and Herbette Jordan. Mike wanted to do something that would both raise funds for the Yellow Ribbon Foundation and to make people stop and think - rather than just casually hear another tragic piece of breaking news.
Mike remembered the monologue, adapted it for today’s climate and recorded it. Partnering with AUK Records, Mike decided to release the single as a digital download with all profits going to the foundation. In the monologue, Mike tells the emotional story of a father who is close to his son, with the son joining the army and being detailed to Afghanistan. It is a highly emotional piece, and has a non-political message about the emotional effect of losses of forces personnel.
When the Yellow Ribbon Foundation were approached with Mike’s proposal for the single, they felt it was wonderful, very emotional, and gave the perfect message that tied in with the aims of the foundation. Victoria Evans, director of the Yellow Ribbon Foundation, said “This is an excellent way for us to get our message across, and we hope many people will buy this – not only to support the foundation, but also to appreciate the human cost of conflicts on the families of our brave armed forces personnel.”
With more sad news of deaths in Afghanistan every day, it is hoped that the public will pick up on this single release, and download it to express non-political support for the men and women of the British Armed Forces.
“Goodnight Dad” is available from all major digital download sites, and all profits are being donated to the Yellow Ribbon Foundation.
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Andrews UK release download single “Goodnight Dad” for The YRF
