by Gavin Heaney
Katie Henley was wondering how to help those impacted by the recent wildfires. But like many didn’t know what she could possibly do.
“I remember feeling an overwhelming sense of helplessness. I wanted to donate food, but my cupboards were bare. I looked in my closet for donation clothes, but no one wants my ratty old jeans and Willie Nelson T-shirts,” she said. “I wanted to do something…Anything. But what?”
As marketing director for Saint Rocke she turned to her skill sets.
“I know music. I know a venue. I know artists. I know how to sell tickets. So I decided to put together a benefit show,” she said. Henley reached out to her network, whose instantaneous responses assured her she was not alone. Within minutes she had a benefit show booked.
“Saint Rocke had already decided to donate proceeds from every show in January, but they were even more supportive by giving me a Saturday night and donating 100% of the proceeds to wildfire relief. I sent messages to my friends and local artists — Fortunate Youth, Tomorrows Bad Seeds and Latch Key Kid. Tunnel Vision and Beebs couldn’t wait to get on board as well as our headliner Pepper. These busy rockstars all jumped at the chance to get involved. It was truly moving to witness. Music truly cares,” she said.
Proceeds from the night will be donated to MusiCares, a non profit that assists musicians in crisis. According to their website, they have pledged $1 million to aid those in the music community who have been affected by the fires. In addition to financial assistance, MusiCares also provides mental health resources and relocation assistance. “MusiCares received over 2,000 requests in the first week of the crisis,” said MusicCares spokesperson Nina Frazer. Henley is personally grateful for the music in her life, and like so many, turns to it in times of tragedy.
“Music brings people together and is a platform for hope. It’s a message of resilience that can lift you up when you need it the most. Music will surround you with more love and support than you ever thought possible and I’m so lucky to be a part of such a wonderful music community who actively want to make a difference,” she said.
Rock out to reggae for a good cause Saturday night, February 1 at Saint Rocke for The LA Wildfire Benefit for MusiCares, featuring performances by members of Pepper and Fortunate Youth, with Tunnel Vision, Beebs, and Latch Key Kid. Hosted by Moi and DJ Mets of Tomorrows Bad Seeds. Tickets are $45 with 100% of proceeds going to nonprofit MusiCares. Visit SaintRocke.com. ER
