In the midst of many of our nation’s worst tragedies, music has been one factor in reuniting our nation and helping to benefit those who were affected and need assistance.
We can recall the Sept. 11 and tsunami concerts to benefit the victims. I had the privilege of attending one of the many concerts to help benefit the victims of Hurricane Katrina, “From the Big Apple to the Big Easy.”
The concert was held in Mardi Gras-themed Radio City Music Hall, where thousands of people gathered not only to hear some of the finest jam band and bayou-inspired music in the country, but also to help the victims of New Orleans and Louisiana.
From the moment you stepped in and were handed Mardi Gras beads by a costumed attendant, you knew the Sept. 20 event was going to be special. Hundreds of colors draped the ceilings, from photographs to streamers to curtains. There was a live band playing on the stairs with people dancing and drinking all around.
Every part of Mardi Gras and Louisiana culture was captured, from the Jambalaya to the drinks of “Southern Comfort.”
The show held up to the great standards that the decorations and themes set. The event, which ran from 7:30 p.m. until 1 a.m. and was hosted by stand-up comic and voice on “The Simpsons,” Harry Shearer.
Artists known more for their smaller followings and “Jazzfest” appearances were just as well received as the evening’s more popular acts. Galactic opened the event, parading down the aisle onto the stage joined by the Rebirth Brass Band. The evening then continued with a mellow acoustic set by up-and-coming Ray LaMontagne.
The southern jam music continued as legendary band, The Meters, performed an electric set followed by the newly assembled John Mayer Trio with special guest Joss Stone. An unexpected guest then appeared: former President Bill Clinton.
With sincerity and gratitude, Clinton extended his appreciation for the crowd’s contribution to the South, which was his boyhood home.
Although the former president was the toughest act to follow, Tom Waits then took the stage and was so good that he was the lone artist to be called out for an encore.
The crowd then came to their feet for what seemed to be the most anticipated act of the evening, a solo acoustic act by Dave Matthews.
After beginning the set with the famed “Crush,” he then followed with many of his solo album songs such as “Some Devil” and “Stay or Leave.” If all of that was not enough, he then brought out good friend and fellow jam artist, Trey Anastasio, formerly of Phish, for two songs, “Everyday” and “Bathtub Gin.”
Trey followed Dave with the rest of his jam band and played a mere three songs that lasted more than 35 minutes.
The evening concluded with a total jam that included all of the artists. The event was a success as all of the profits were donated to the victims.
The Dolan family, owners of Madison Square Garden and Cablevision, paid out of pocket for every part of the evening to ensure the total donation of the profit. The silent auctions were also a large hit, with timeless memorabilia from many of the great artists of today such as Coldplay and the Dave Matthews Band, as well as evenings to some of New York City’s finest restaurants and spas.
Aside from the exciting experience and wonderful music, it was nice to know that I contributed to a cause that directly helps people in need.
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