When is comes to social justice, music can be an effective tool in starting a conversation. The Arts in general bring about an openness in thought that is rarely seen anywhere else. Maybe it's because passionate people can not easily separate the things they love the most. They must exist together. Many debate whether it's appropriate for artists to use their platform to promote a cause, but there's no arguing how effective that platform can be in delivering a message. Most artists struggle to walk that fine line when engaging an audience with their art and trying to promote a cause they are passionate about.

For folk/pop artist and cellist Ben Sollee, his dedication to his music and to the causes he believes in goes hand in hand. In 2009, Ben hit on the road in truly unique way in pursuit of promoting a cause - on a bicycle. Partnering with international organization Oxfam, Ben used his tour to "Pedal Against Poverty" as he made his way to the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in Manchester, TN. Ben traveled to each show across the country with his cello strapped to the back of his bike, bringing awareness about global poverty. He also promoted Oxfam America's "Unwrapped" online store to offer people the opportunity to provide direct needs to those suffering from poverty by purchasing things like soap, books and even goats.

Recently, another social issue has become a focus for Ben - mountaintop removal. Having grown up in the Appalachians, this environmental issue is extremely close to his heart. Earlier this year, Ben and fellow Kentucky artist Daniel Martin Moore collaborated on a benefit record to support an organization called Appalachian Voices. This organization's simple mission is to stop the environmentally harmful coal mining practice of mountaintop removal. The record was produced by Yim Yames, another Kentucky native and the lead singer of the group My Morning Jacket. In May of 2010, Ben announced a benefit tour with Daniel Martin Moore and Yim Yames to support Appalachian Voices. The trio will hit the road in July, traveling north, across the Appalachia region.

You making be wondering if this guy Ben Sollee is any good of a musician considering we spent so much time talking about Ben's passion for creating positive social change and no time talking about his musical talent. Well, we are definitely huge fans of Ben's music, but you'll have to check out his music and decide for yourself. Check out the links below to hear Ben's music and learn more about the causes he supports.

Ben Sollee's Website: bensollee.com
Dear Companion Benefit Record: dearcompanion.com
Oxfam Bike Tour: oxfam.org
Oxfam America Unwrapped: oxfamamericaunwrapped.org
Appalachian Voices: appalachianvoices.org