Mar 25, 2019
Ken Kragen has achieved things many only dream of: managing world-class musicians, raising millions of dollars to fight hunger internationally and at home. How does he do it? Recently he spoke with Steve Sims on “The Art of Making Things Happen Podcast” about his illustrious career and the importance of giving back and living a balanced life.
- In the 1980s Ken Kragen was responsible for gathering the top musicians to raise $53 million for USA for Africa through its superstar-powered “We Are the World” hit single.
- Kragen was the personal managers for numerous musicians like, Trisha Yearwood, Travis Tritt, Lionel Richie and Kenny Rogers for many years.
- His next project raised $34 million by creating a human chain that stretched from New York to Los Angeles, "Hands Across America".
- In addition to this fundraising success, the effort helped release $800 million of government funding that had been held to feed women, children and infants.
- Kragen attributes his success to being in the right place at the right time.
- Now in his 80's, he hasn't slowed down, currently working on 9 projects.
Anyone looking to achieve a more balanced life could take a page or two from Kragen’s book, "Life is a Contact Sport". He says his parents are his inspiration. They taught him the importance of pursuing what you’re really passionate about, to maximize the likes and minimize the dislikes in life. This balance has enabled him to stay active in consulting, teaching, developing documentaries and working on a project connected to the World’s Fair in Dubai in 2020.
To learn more about Ken Kragen and his projects, visit https://www.kenkragen.com/