Joe Bonamassa Helping Bands Get Back Out There
| Earlier this year, blues singer-guitarist Joe Bonamassa embarked on a spring tour that showcased “a signature selection from” his vast catalog, including classics, reinventions and fan favorites. The shows featured his terrific backing band that includes Late Night with David Letterman’s Anton Fig (drums), Nashville recording legend Michael Rhodes (bass), Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Reese Wynans (piano/organ), Paulie Cerra (sax), Lee Thornburg (trumpet), and backup singers Mahalia Barnes and Jade MacRae.
In the wake of so many canceled tours due to the coronavirus pandemic, Bonamassa announced a new Fueling Musicians Relief Program that will give bands cash and gas cards to help them get back on the road once the lockdowns lift. An emergency relief program designed to support musicians by providing immediate cash payments for essential living expenses of $1,000 as well as pre-paid gas cards of $500 to help them stay afloat and get back on the road again when it is safe, the Fueling Musicians Relief Fund comes at a time when touring musicians desperately need help. “Right now, the music industry has been brought to its knees,” says Bonamassa in a statement. To kick off this fundraising initiative, Bonamassa will make $25,000 immediately available for touring musicians in need. Initial funding will be generated from several sources, including the sale of Bonamassa’s prototype JB signature amp. Initially, there will be be multiple fundraising platforms. For his birthday on May 8, Bonamassa will host a week-long fundraiser on Facebook to help raise additional funds. Currently in development, he will also host a special stream-a-thon event which will feature exclusive performances and is slated to take place sometime in May. “We are in a critical time in the music business and I want to see as many bands and artists survive and flourish going forward when they are given the green light to tour again,” he says. Individuals or organizations interested in helping Joe support this program should go the Keeping the Blues Alive website. Artists who would like to be considered for financial aid can fill out an application via ktba.org/fueling-musicians-program-application-form/ |
