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MASONIC AUDITORIUM SHOW HELD FEBRUARY 21 IN SAN FRANCISCO FEATURED PERFORMANCES FROM HOZIER, JOAN BAEZ, VAN MORRISON, STEVIE VAN ZANDT, GEORGE THOROGOOD, PATTY GRIFFIN, JIM LAUDERDALE, WILL HOGE, JOE HENRY, RUBY AMANFU, TROMBONE SHORTY KIDS, TAJ MAHAL AND MORE  Photo credit: Jay Blakesberg San Francisco, CA (March 25, 2026) - Sweet Relief Musicians Fund recently held their annual benefit concert in San Francisco and raised over $500,000 for the organization. The show on February 21 at the Masonic Auditorium celebrated the legacy of legendary blues musician Taj Mahal and featured performances from Hozier, Joan Baez, Van Morrison, Stevie Van Zandt, George Thorogood, Patty Griffin, Jim Lauderdale, Will Hoge, Joe Henry, Ruby Amanfu, Bobby Rush, and Taj Mahal. In addition to the event, fans had the opportunity to bid on a piece of musical history with the D’Angelico Bob Weir Signature Guitar, uniquely signed by performers at A Night to Honor Taj Mahal. This exquisite instrument not only embodies the craftsmanship of D'Angelico but also carries the legacy of a memorable event, making it a must-have for collectors and music enthusiasts alike. Aric Steinberg, Executive Director at Sweet Relief Musicians Fund adds, “Another unforgettable show! It's always gratifying to witness the generosity of our music community and our performers first-hand, and to see everyone coming together for a common cause. We all recognize the urgent need to provide a safety net to our musicians and music industry professionals, and the funds raised will do exactly that.” Sweet Relief Musicians Fund provides services and financial assistance for career musicians and music industry professionals. Grants are earmarked for medical and vital living expenses, including insurance premiums, prescriptions, medical treatment and operative procedures, housing costs, food costs, utilities, and other basic necessities. Ahead of the event, Taj Mahal shared, “Thrilled to be honored by Sweet Relief and to celebrate with good feeling music. Thank you, Sweet Relief for all that you do and for bringing us together.” Connect with Sweet Relief Musicians Fund:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | X For Sweet Relief Musicians Fund press inquiries, please contact: Jeff Kilgour | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 917.678.4420 Allie Gruensfelder | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 201.864.0900 x264
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HOSTED BY DANNY CLINCH AND RACHEL ANA DOBKEN, FEATURING A SUPER JAM WITH SPECIAL GUESTS NEAL FRANCIS, KARINA RYKMAN, AND MORE! OPENING SET BY RACHEL ANA DOBKEN BAND & THE EXTENSIONS  New York, NY (March 18, 2026) - Legendary Asbury Park, NJ venue Asbury Lanes will host a benefit show for Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, an organization that provides services and financial assistance for career musicians and music industry professionals. Grants are earmarked for medical and vital living expenses, including insurance premiums, prescriptions, medical treatment and operative procedures, housing costs, food costs, utilities, and other basic necessities. The show will take place on April 19, led by Rachel Ana Dobken and Danny Clinch, featuring a Special Collaborative Set with Neal Francis, Karina Rykman and more! The show will also feature opening sets by Rachel Ana Dobken Band and The Extensions. On the upcoming benefit show, Rachel Ana Dobken shares “Sweet Relief is a company I deeply believe in as so many of us artists are struggling in so many ways and we wanted to give back. I have had some serious health issues and they offered help when I least expected it. It’s going to be a great night featuring a special guest collaborative set with my band as house band with Danny Clinch plus guests Neal Francis, Karina Rykman and MORE. Don’t miss it!” Aric Steinberg, Executive Director at Sweet Relief Musicians Fund added “We’re so happy to see this show come together thanks to Rachel Ana Dobken and Danny Clinch, and we’re grateful to all of the artists who are contributing their performances to help us serve the music community. Looking forward to some wonderful surprises as well!” For more information on the show, tickets are available now and additional details can be found here. Connect with Sweet Relief Musicians Fund:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | X For Sweet Relief Musicians Fund press inquiries, please contact: Jeff Kilgour | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 917.678.4420 Allie Gruensfelder | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 201.864.0900 x264 Warren Haynes returns with new Gov't Mule signed Soundwaves collection Supporting Sweet Relief3/6/2026  NOW LIVE! Warren Haynes is back with an all-new Soundwaves collection created from Gov't Mule's "Banks of the Deep End" to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its release this year! Just before soundcheck at Paramount Theater in Austin, TX on February 22, the Soundwaves team met up with Warren to sign 75 prints and four Originals to support Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. The artwork also features handwritten lyrics by Warren that were digitally added to each print.   #SweetSupporter Shakey Graves will be heading out on The Fondness, Etc. tour this summer! Pre-sales start tomorrow (3/3) at 10AM local time.
Shakey Graves is also partnering with PLUS1 so that $1 per ticket goes to supporting Sweet Relief Musicians Fund! Sign up to get tickets at shakeygraves.com/tour  Our hearts are so full ❤️🎶❤️
THANK YOU to everyone that joined us over the weekend to celebrate the legendary Taj Mahal! We’re so grateful for every single person that made the night magical ✨ THANK YOU to all the incredible performers, including Taj, Van Morrison, Hozier, Joan Baez, Stevie Van Zandt, Maria Muldaur, George Thorogood, Patty Griffin, Jim Lauderdale, Will Hoge, Joe Henry, Ruby Amanfu, Trombone Shorty Kids, Faye Carol, Alvin Youngblood Hart, Otis and Taylor Cassie, and Lady Bianca, Narada Michael Walden, Jason Crosby, Greg Leisz, David Pitch, and Jay Bellerose! 🎶 THANK YOU Harper House Music Foundation for their partnership in this event ❤️ THANK YOU Jay Blakesberg for these amazing photos! 📸 THANK YOU to The Masonic for hosting us again this year 🙏 And THANK YOU for all the folks in the crowd that brought an unimaginable energy 🙌  Freddie Jones is a Dallas-based jazz trumpeter, recording artist, educator, and community leader originally from Memphis, where his love for music began at an early age. By 16, he was already performing professionally and even opened for soul legend Al Green, signaling the start of a lifelong career in jazz. A graduate of the University of North Texas with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Studies, Freddie has built a respected career as a performing artist throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex and neighboring states, releasing numerous CDs that showcase his signature sound and deep roots in jazz tradition. Known first and foremost for his artistry, he has also shared his knowledge through decades of private instruction and teaching at local community colleges, mentoring generations of young musicians. He performed the National Anthem at every home game for the Dallas Cowboys for over 13 seasons, bringing his signature sound to one of the most recognized stages in professional sports. He is the founder of Trumpets4Kids, a youth music education organization recognized by the State of Texas for its community impact. Beyond the stage and classroom, Freddie is a devoted husband and the proud father of three, grounding his musical legacy in faith, family, and service.
Funds will be used to support his in-home care and the costs required to attend a day-time organization that specialized in progressive neurodegenerative disorders, like Alzheimer's.  Take home a piece of history and bid on one of these items from "A Night to Honor Taj Mahal!" Win a DAngelico Bob Weir Signature Guitar signed by performers, including Taj Mahal, Joan Baez, Hozier, and more! Or you can bid on a beautiful painting of Taj Mahal by artist John Bukaty! The auction closes February 25th. Place your bid below! About John Bukaty: John Bukaty is an American pioneer of the live painting movement. He began his career twenty years ago on canvas capturing weekly band performances at a Kansas City brewpub, but has since traveled to India, Ireland, Mexico, and beyond creating and sharing his work through mediums ranging from painting and sculpture to poetry and apparel. One of Bukaty’s most unique gifts is his ability to capture the essence of live action on canvas. He has been selected to commemorate such events as the NFL Super Bowl, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship. As a result, he has created a vast national network of fans and collaborators. He works often with Grammy Award-winning musician Anders Osborne on the Send Me A Friend project, which helps support newly sober musicians on the road. About the D'Angelico Guitar:
This exquisite instrument not only embodies the craftsmanship of D'Angelico but also carries the legacy of a memorable event, making it a must-have for collectors and music enthusiasts alike. The guitar is in pristine, new condition, authenticated by signatures from the event's talented lineup, ensuring its authenticity and value. D'Angelico guitars are renowned for their rich tonal quality and elegant design, and this signature model, associated with Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead, adds a layer of cultural significance. Bob Weir's influence in the music world is profound, with a career spanning decades as a founding member of one of the most iconic bands in rock history. This signed guitar is more than an instrument; it's a symbol of musical heritage and a testament to the artistry of those who performed at the benefit.  Have you ever dreamed of going to Morocco? The String Cheese Incident is giving one lucky winner and their guest a trip to Marrakech to join them at The Moroccan Incident!
Donate now to support Sweet Relief for your chance to win below! Your Moroccan getaway includes flights to Marrakech and a 4-night stay at the Radisson Blu Hotel, a VIP package to The Moroccan Incident for two at Villa Marco September 24 - September 26, the chance to take a group photo with the band and more.  Photo credit: Ruth Medjber San Francisco, CA (February 11, 2026) - Sweet Relief Musicians Fund recently announced their annual benefit concert, celebrating the legacy of legendary blues musician Taj Mahal, on February 21, at Masonic Auditorium in San Francisco. Previously confirmed performers include Joan Baez, Van Morrison, Stevie Van Zandt, George Thorogood, Mike Campbell, Patty Griffin, Jim Lauderdale, Will Hoge, Joe Henry, Ruby Amanfu, Bobby Rush, and Taj Mahal with surprise guests. The Irish singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Hozier has confirmed he will join the esteemed list of performers at this year’s event. Irish singer, songwriter, and musician Hozier blends folk, blues, soul, and rock with literary lyricism and social consciousness. He first gained international recognition with his multi-platinum debut single “Take Me to Church,” which earned a GRAMMY nomination and established him as a powerful new voice in contemporary music. Across his critically acclaimed albums Hozier, Wasteland, Baby! and Unreal Unearth, he has explored themes of love, faith, politics, and humanity, drawing inspiration from poetry, mythology, and the natural world. Known for his rich vocals and emotionally resonant songwriting, Hozier has amassed billions of streams worldwide and continues to captivate audiences across the globe.  Hozier’s performance will honor Taj Mahal, an influential American blues musician whose career has spanned more than five decades, marked by a deep exploration of roots music from around the world. Emerging in the late 1960s, he helped redefine the blues by blending it with Caribbean, African, Hawaiian, and Latin influences, long before such fusion became common. His early albums, including Taj Mahal and The Natch’l Blues, set the tone for a career built on innovation, soulful vocals, and masterful multi-instrumentalism. Over the years, he has collaborated widely, earned multiple Grammy Awards, and become a revered figure for preserving tradition while expanding its boundaries. Taj Mahal’s work continues to inspire new generations of artists and listeners drawn to his global, joyful approach to the blues. On the upcoming event, Taj Mahal shared “Thrilled to be honored by Sweet Relief and to celebrate with good feeling music. Thank you @Sweetrelief for all that you do and for bringing us together.” Aric Steinberg, Executive Director at Sweet Relief Musicians Fund added, “What an incredible way to celebrate 32 years of Sweet Relief, by honoring the legendary Taj Mahal! This celebration is long overdue for such an acclaimed artist, and we are so grateful that he’s allowing us to bring these amazing artists together to bring the house down on February 21st. This will be a special show indeed, and is also a critical fundraiser for our music community in need of emergency financial assistance for physical or mental health care. More artists will be announced in the coming weeks and there are always a few surprises!” Sweet Relief Musicians Fund provides services and financial assistance for career musicians and music industry professionals. Grants are earmarked for medical and vital living expenses, including insurance premiums, prescriptions, medical treatment and operative procedures, housing costs, food costs, utilities, and other basic necessities. In addition to the event, fans will have the opportunity to bid on a piece of musical history with the D’Angelico Bob Weir Signature Guitar, uniquely signed by performers at A Night to Honor Taj Mahal. This exquisite instrument not only embodies the craftsmanship of D'Angelico but also carries the legacy of a memorable event, making it a must-have for collectors and music enthusiasts alike. The guitar is in pristine, new condition, authenticated by signatures from the event's talented lineup, ensuring its authenticity and value. For more information, visit Charity Buzz. Connect with Sweet Relief Musicians Fund: Website | Instagram | Facebook | X For Sweet Relief Musicians Fund press inquiries please contact: Jeff Kilgour | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 917.678.4420 Allie Gruensfelder | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 201.864.0900 x264  Experience an unforgettable trip to Brooklyn to see Bob Moses live and meet them in person. You and a guest could be flown to New York City for a two-night stay and enjoy two premium tickets on Bob Moses’ guest list for their show at Brooklyn Paramount on Thursday, April 16, 2026. This is your chance to be part of an electric night in one of Brooklyn’s most iconic venues.
Before the show, you and your guest will meet Bob Moses and take a photo together, plus enjoy two “In A Blink” VIP packages. These include a pre-show group Q&A with the band, a VIP group photo, an exclusive VIP merch item, priority entry into the venue, and a commemorative VIP laminate and lanyard. To top it all off, you’ll also receive a Bob Moses merch pack and gift card for pre-show dinner and local ground transportation. Your donation supports Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, helping provide financial assistance to musicians and music industry workers who are facing physical or mental health issues, disability, or age-related challenges. Enter now for your chance to experience this special Brooklyn getaway with Bob Moses while supporting the people behind the music.  A NOTE FROM JOE SATRIANI & STEVE VAI "Hey friends – Joe and Steve here. We couldn’t be more excited to be on the road together on the Surfing With the Hydra Tour, playing shows across North America throughout April and May. Even more exciting, we’re giving you the chance to join us in Atlantic City on May 29, 2026. One lucky fan and a guest will be set up with front-row tickets, get a full backstage tour, and have dinner with the band backstage. (Flights and hotel included.) Plus, we’ll send you home with a VIP merch pack to commemorate your time with us. The best part is that your entry supports Sweet Relief, an organization we care deeply about that helps musicians stay afloat when health issues put their livelihoods at risk. You can donate* as little as $15 for a chance to win. Good luck! We'll see you in Atlantic City. – Joe & Steve" What You Can Win
Two front-row tickets to see SATCHVAI Band on the Surfing With the Hydra Tour at the Borgata in Atlantic City on May 29, 2026 Private meet and greet and photo op with Joe and Steve Dinner with the band backstage Exclusive backstage tour One VIP merch package Round-trip airfare for you and a guest Hotel accommodations for two nights  Javier Escovedo has been living with cirrhosis and degenerative disc disease and has recently been diagnosed with autism. At 68, he was told he does not qualify for disability or unemployment. With his medical and basic living bills continuing to mount, he urgently needs financial assistance. All donations made to this fund will go directly towards vital living expenses for Javier during this difficult time. Javier emerged as a pioneer of the 70s West Coast punk movement, founding both bands, The Zeros and The True Believers, The Zeros being one of the very first California punk rock bands and one of the first to release a single.
Raised in Southern California, Javier Escovedo was born into music. Two of his older brothers, Pete Escovedo and Coke Escovedo, were celebrated Latin jazz musicians who also worked with Santana and formed the band Azteca, while another of his brothers, Alejandro Escovedo, earned a loyal following as an eclectic singer/songwriter. His niece Shelia Escovedo is another jazz artist whose career was launched into pop success under the name Shelia E. Javier was the true rock & roll man in the family - a swaggering and confident guitarist and tunesmith, he played with a handful of notable groups before launching a solo career. Influenced by artists like Lou Reed, David Bowie, Alice Cooper, T. Rex, Roxy Music, and especially New York Dolls, Javier has been in the music scene since 1977. In the 80s Javier formed the True Believers with Brother Alejandro in Austin, Texas and toured the US and Canada with Los Lobos. Putting out their first album in 1991, The Zeros’s Don’t Push Me Around, led them to release ground-breaking punk singles like “Wild Weekend,” which defined the genre, and was given a Lifetime Achievement Award by the San Diego Music Awards in 2005. After years of working on his craft, City Lights was released in 2012 and was a welcome return from the elusive artist as his first solo project. Kicked Out of Eden, followed as his second solo album in 2016. Javier is currently working on a new record.
We’re thrilled to announce that Lady Bianca will be joining us as a special guest for A Night to Honor Taj Mahal at The Masonic
Get your tickets before they’re gone! Lady Bianca is a Gospel and R&B vocalist, classically trained pianist, recording artist, producer and band leader. She has performed, recorded and toured with Frank Zappa, Sly Stone, Van Morrison, and John Lee Hooker (just to name a few!) and we are so excited to have her join us in February at The Masonic!
We’re excited to announce that Otis Taylor and Cassie Taylor will be joining us as special guests for A Night to Honor Taj Mahal at The Masonic!
Get your tickets below before they're gone! Critically acclaimed blues musician Otis Taylor is known for his story-driven sound that blends traditional blues with banjo and guitar. Cassie Taylor, his daughter, is a skilled bassist and singer-songwriter who brings their own depth and perspective to the music. We’re looking forward to them joining up on February 21st!  Win a trip to meet Taj Mahal in San Francisco at “A Night to Honor Taj Mahal” with Van Morrison, Joan Baez, Stevie Van Zandt, George Thorogood, & more!
Donate now to help us support Sweet Relief for your chance to win. What you'll get:
JOINED BY VAN MORRISON, STEVIE VAN ZANDT, GEORGE THOROGOOD, MIKE CAMPBELL, BOBBY RUSH, PATTY GRIFFIN, JIM LAUDERDALE, WILL HOGE, JOE HENRY, RUBY AMANFU, TROMBONE SHORTY KIDS, AND TAJ MAHAL WITH SPECIAL GUESTS + MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED TICKETS ON SALE NOW  Photo credit: Dana Tynan San Francisco, CA (January 9, 2026) - Sweet Relief Musicians Fund recently announced their annual benefit concert, celebrating the legacy of legendary blues musician Taj Mahal, on February 21, at Masonic Auditorium in San Francisco. Previously confirmed performers include Van Morrison, Stevie Van Zandt, George Thorogood, Mike Campbell, Patty Griffin, Jim Lauderdale, Will Hoge, Joe Henry, Ruby Amanfu, Bobby Rush, and Taj Mahal with surprise guests. Last year’s honoree, the iconic folk singer/songwriter Joan Baez, has confirmed she will join the esteemed list of performers at this year’s event. Joan Baez has endured as a musical force of nature for over six decades, with an unwavering commitment to social activism and the arts. Her classic early 1960s folk recordings attracted a generation who carried songs like “House Of the Rising Sun” and “Babe, I’m Gonna Leave You” into the rock lexicon. She was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2017. Though Baez stopped touring in 2019, she has been the subject of the film, I Am The Noise, and has released a book of drawings, Am I Pretty When I Fly?, and a book of poetry, When You See My Mother, Ask Her To Dance.  Baez's performance will honor Taj Mahal, an influential American blues musician whose career has spanned more than five decades, marked by a deep exploration of roots music from around the world. Emerging in the late 1960s, he helped redefine the blues by blending it with Caribbean, African, Hawaiian, and Latin influences, long before such fusion became common. His early albums, including Taj Mahal and The Natch’l Blues, set the tone for a career built on innovation, soulful vocals, and masterful multi-instrumentalism. Over the years, he has collaborated widely, earned multiple Grammy Awards, and become a revered figure for preserving tradition while expanding its boundaries. Taj Mahal’s work continues to inspire new generations of artists and listeners drawn to his global, joyful approach to the blues. On the upcoming event, Taj Mahal shared “Thrilled to be honored by Sweet Relief and to celebrate with good feeling music. Thank you @Sweetrelief for all that you do and for bringing us together.” Aric Steinberg, Executive Director at Sweet Relief Musicians Fund added, “What an incredible way to celebrate 32 years of Sweet Relief, by honoring the legendary Taj Mahal! This celebration is long overdue for such an acclaimed artist, and we are so grateful that he’s allowing us to bring these amazing artists together to bring the house down on February 21st. This will be a special show indeed, and is also a critical fundraiser for our music community in need of emergency financial assistance for physical or mental health care. More artists will be announced in the coming weeks and there are always a few surprises!” Sweet Relief Musicians Fund provides services and financial assistance for career musicians and music industry professionals. Grants are earmarked for medical and vital living expenses, including insurance premiums, prescriptions, medical treatment and operative procedures, housing costs, food costs, utilities, and other basic necessities. Connect with Sweet Relief Musicians Fund:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | X For Sweet Relief Musicians Fund press inquiries, please contact: Jeff Kilgour | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 917.678.4420 Allie Gruensfelder | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 201.864.0900 x264 PUNK ROCK TO THE RESCUE COLLABORATIVE SINGLE + MUSIC VIDEO FOR “WE ARE LA” FEATURING MEMBERS OF MINUTEMEN, SOCIAL DISTORTION, PENNYWISE, FOO FIGHTERS, ALKALINE TRIO, THE GOGOS, TSOL + MORE IS OUT NOW THE TRACK COMMEMORATES THE ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEVASTATING LA FIRES BID ON SIGNED GUITAR FROM “WE ARE LA” PERFORMERS HERE  Los Angeles, CA (January 7, 2025) - Punk rock to the rescue! To commemorate the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, a collaborative single “We Are LA” is now available across all digital streaming platforms, marking exactly one year from when the fires began. The single features some punk rock heavy hitters including members of Minutemen, Social Distortion, The Linda Lindas, Foo Fighters, Alkaline Trio, Pennywise and more. To order the limited-edition vinyl, visit HERE. Produced by Charlie Overbey and GRAMMY Award winning producer Ted Hutt, proceeds from “We Are LA” will benefit Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, who provide services and financial assistance for career musicians and music industry professionals. Grants are earmarked for medical and vital living expenses, including insurance premiums, prescriptions, medical treatment and operative procedures, housing costs, food costs, utilities, and other basic necessities. The full list of collaborators include: Mike Watt of Minutemen, Jonny Two Bags of Social Distortion, Ron Emory and Greg Kuehn of TSOL, Atom Willard of Alkaline Trio, Rami Jaffee of Foo Fighters, Jim Lindberg of Pennywise, Tony Reflex of The Adolescents, Jane Weidlin of The Gogos, Annette Zilinskas of The Bangles, Eloise Wong of The Linda Lindas, Texacala Jones of Tex & The Horseheads, Teresa Stone of The Pony Tales, Paul Roessler of The Screamers, Kimm Gardner of CH3, Ted Hutt of Flogging Molly, Marko DeSantis of Sugarcult, Johnny Whitmer of The Stitches, Christian Fuhre of Aversion, Aaron Rev Peters and Jake Margolis of The Drowns, Aric Steinberg of Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, Patrick Hildebrand, Owner of The Amazing Music Store and victim of the wildfires, Gary Tovar of The Godfather Of Punk and Founder of Goldenvoice, Charlie Overbey of Custom Made Scare & Katie Overbey of The Backlash.  WATCH “WE ARE LA” HERE Charlie Overbey & Vanessa Dingwell are no strangers to using their platforms for fundraising and stepping up to help a community in need. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Lone Hawk Hats & Honeywood Vintage, with the help of their celebrity clientele, raised over $100,000 through a live social media auction for Navajo Nation COVID-19 relief, benefiting the Navajo Nation via The United Natives Foundation. That same year, Overbey also recorded the single “Ode To John Prine” for Save Our Stages with members of Tom Petty, the Rolling Stones, Foo Fighters, Guitarist Jimmy Vivino, Singer LP, and his daughter, Katie Overbey. In addition to the single + video, a signed guitar and signed t-shirt from nearly all of the performers on “We Are LA” is available to bid on, with proceeds benefiting Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. The auction will run from January 7 at 10am ET, and will end on January 18 at 10pm ET. Additional details can be found HERE.  Earlier this year, as part of the ongoing Los Angeles wildfire relief efforts, Charlie Overbey & Vanessa Dingwall, founders of Lone Hawk Hats & Honeywood Vintage, launched an auction across social media, where fans bid on their iconic signed hats. Benefiting Sweet Relief Natural Disaster Fund, signed hats were available daily, including but not limited to, singer/songwriter LP, Blackberry Smoke frontman Charlie Starr, Black Crowes’ Chris Robinson, Taime Downe from Faster Pussycat, along with actors, Cree Summer, Dan Stevens, Josh Holloway, Brian Konoval, 1883 & 1923 Costume designer Gaby Acosta, among others. ###
Connect with Sweet Relief Musicians Fund: Website | Instagram | Facebook | X For Sweet Relief Musicians Fund press inquiries, please contact: Jeff Kilgour | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 917.678.4420 Allie Gruensfelder | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 201.864.0900 x264
We’re excited to announce Alvin Youngblood Hart will be joining us as a special guest for A Night to Honor Taj Mahal at The Masonic!
Get your tickets below before they’re gone! Known as a “musician's musician,” Alvin Youngblood Hart's praises have been sung by everyone from Bob Dylan to Brit guitar gods Eric Clapton & Mick Taylor. Taj Mahal once said, "He's got thunder in his hands." We’re excited for him to join us in February! Dear #SweetSupporters,
As we round out another year, I want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude for your kindness and support throughout 2025. Because of you, we have been able to offer essential support to musicians and music industry professionals dealing with physical and mental illness, disability, and age-related issues. I want to give special thanks to the many individuals and organizations that supported Sweet Relief in response to the LA Fires last January. Thanks to that support, we were able to say yes and issue a grant to all qualified applicants that applied for emergency assistance. We could not have done that without your generous donations. I also want to extend that thanks to our small but mighty staff who really stepped up for that immense challenge, I could not be more proud. Your contributions through donations, fundraising, and volunteering have made a long-lasting impact in the lives of countless individuals. We are deeply grateful for your belief in our mission and your dedication to helping those who have given us so much through music. Looking ahead to next year, we remain committed to expanding our impact, and we know that with your continued support, we can do even more to bring "Sweet Relief" to the music community. Thank you again for your kindness and generosity. We wish you a happy and music-filled New Year! Warm regards, Bill Bennett President Sweet Relief Musicians Fund
We’re so excited to welcome The Dynamic Miss Faye Carol as a special guest for our Night to Honor Taj Mahal on February 21st at The Masonic!
Get your tickets below before they’re gone. The Dynamic Miss Faye Carol is one of the premier vocalists of her time. A Bay Area legend since the 1960s, she crosses boundaries between blues, jazz, gospel, funk, R&B and beyond. We’re grateful to have her join us! FEATURING PERFORMANCES BY VAN MORRISON, STEVIE VAN ZANDT, GEORGE THOROGOOD, MIKE CAMPBELL, BOBBY RUSH, PATTY GRIFFIN, JIM LAUDERDALE, WILL HOGE, JOE HENRY, RUBY AMANFU, TROMBONE SHORTY KIDS, AND TAJ MAHAL WITH SPECIAL GUESTS + MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED TICKETS ON SALE DECEMBER 19  San Francisco, CA (December 16, 2025) - Sweet Relief Musicians Fund has announced their annual benefit concert, celebrating the legacy of legendary blues musician Taj Mahal, on February 21, at Masonic Auditorium in San Francisco. Confirmed performers include Van Morrison, Stevie Van Zandt, George Thorogood, Mike Campbell, Patty Griffin, Jim Lauderdale, Will Hoge, Joe Henry, Ruby Amanfu, Bobby Rush, and Taj Mahal with surprise guests and additional performers to be announced shortly. Tickets for the event will be on sale this Friday, December 19. Taj Mahal is an influential American blues musician whose career has spanned more than five decades, marked by a deep exploration of roots music from around the world. Emerging in the late 1960s, he helped redefine the blues by blending it with Caribbean, African, Hawaiian, and Latin influences, long before such fusion became common. His early albums, including Taj Mahal and The Natch’l Blues, set the tone for a career built on innovation, soulful vocals, and masterful multi-instrumentalism. Over the years, he has collaborated widely, earned multiple Grammy Awards, and become a revered figure for preserving tradition while expanding its boundaries. Taj Mahal’s work continues to inspire new generations of artists and listeners drawn to his global, joyful approach to the blues.
“Thrilled to be honored by Sweet Relief and to celebrate with good feeling music," Taj Mahal shares, and continues, "Thank you Sweet Relief for all that you do and for bringing us together.” Aric Steinberg, Executive Director at Sweet Relief Musicians Fund adds, “What an incredible way to celebrate 32 years of Sweet Relief, by honoring the legendary Taj Mahal! This celebration is long overdue for such an acclaimed artist, and we are so grateful that he’s allowing us to bring these amazing artists together to bring the house down on February 21st. This will be a special show indeed, and is also a critical fundraiser for our music community in need of emergency financial assistance for physical or mental health care. More artists will be announced in the coming weeks and there are always a few surprises!” The February event is part of an ongoing series of shows presented by Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. It serves as a follow-up to 2025’s event celebrating Joan Baez which featured performances by Bonnie Raitt, Emmylou Harris, Joe Henry, Lucinda Williams, Margo Price, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, Rosanne Cash, Taj Mahal, Tom Morello + special guests. Sweet Relief Musicians Fund provides services and financial assistance for career musicians and music industry professionals. Grants are earmarked for medical and vital living expenses, including insurance premiums, prescriptions, medical treatment and operative procedures, housing costs, food costs, utilities, and other basic necessities. ### Connect with Sweet Relief Musicians Fund: Website | Instagram | Facebook | X For Sweet Relief Musicians Fund press inquiries, please contact: Jeff Kilgour | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 917.678.4420 Allie Gruensfelder | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 201.864.0900 x264  ON SALE NOW! A limited amount of engraved String Cheese Incident jewelry cut from Jason Hann’s cracked cymbal. A portion of every sale is donated to Sweet Relief Musicians Fund Less than 120 necklaces + 70 earring pairs were made. The jewelry we created was cut from Jason’s primary 18″ crash cymbal. This crash was smacked on-stage during all shows spanning 2018-2022. About 200 total shows! Alas, the cymbal (bravely) succumbed to its injuries in the line of duty and now YOU can own (and wear!) a piece of it. Jason Hann is the percussionist and electronic producer for the multi-flavored band, The String Cheese Incident, since 2004. His versatility in so many different styles of music allows for his percussion textures and rhythms to flow with SCI’s eclectic approach to their musical journey.
The past three decades have written a story packed full of surreal experiences, epic moments, groundbreaking involvement and huge accomplishments. The String Cheese Incident has been recognized for their commitment to musical creativity and integrity, for their community spirit, philanthropic endeavors, and for their innovative approach to the business of music. TRACK FEATURES MEMBERS OF SOCIAL DISTORTION, PENNYWISE, THE MINUTEMEN, FOO FIGHTERS, ALKALINE TRIO, THE GOGOS, TSOL, AND MORE PRE-ORDER “WE ARE LA” VINYL HERE PROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT SWEET RELIEF MUSICIANS FUND  Los Angeles, CA (December 9, 2025) - To commemorate the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, a collaborative single “We Are LA” will be available on January 7, exactly one year from when the fires began. The single features some punk rock heavy hitters including members of Social Distortion, The Linda Lindas, The Minutemen, Foo Fighters, Alkaline Trio, Pennywise and more. To pre-order the limited-edition vinyl, visit HERE.
Produced by GRAMMY Award winner Ted Hutt and Charlie Overbey, proceeds from “We Are LA” will benefit Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, who provide services and financial assistance for career musicians and music industry professionals. Grants are earmarked for medical and vital living expenses, including insurance premiums, prescriptions, medical treatment and operative procedures, housing costs, food costs, utilities, and other basic necessities. The full list of collaborators include: Mike Watt of Minutemen, Jonny Two Bags of Social Distortion, Ron Emory and Greg Kuehn of TSOL, Atom Willard of Alkaline Trio, Rami Jaffee of Foo Fighters, Jim Lindberg of Pennywise, Tony Reflex of The Adolescents, Jane Weidlin of The Gogos, Annette Zilinskas of The Bangles, Eloise Wong of The Linda Lindas, Texacala Jones of Tex & The Horseheads, Teresa Stone of The Pony Tales, Paul Roessler of The Screamers, Kimm Gardner of CH3, Ted Hutt of Flogging Molly, Marko DeSantis of Sugarcult, Johnny Whitmer of The Stitches, Christian Fuhre of Aversion, Aaron Rev Peters and Jake Margolis of The Drowns, Aric Steinberg of Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, Patrick Hildebrand, Owner of The Amazing Music Store and victim of the wildfires, Gary Tovar of The Godfather Of Punk and Founder of Goldenvoice, Charlie Overbey of Custom Made Scare & Katie Overbey of The Backlash. Charlie Overbey & Vanessa Dingwell are no strangers to using their platforms for fundraising and stepping up to help a community in need. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Lone Hawk Hats & Honeywood Vintage, with the help of their celebrity clientele, raised over $100,000 through a live social media auction for Navajo Nation COVID-19 relief, benefiting the Navajo Nation via The United Natives Foundation. That same year, Overbey also recorded the single “Ode To John Prine” for Save Our Stages with members of Tom Petty, the Rolling Stones, Foo Fighters, Guitarist Jimmy Vivino, Singer LP, and his daughter, Katie Overbey. Earlier this year, as part of the ongoing Los Angeles wildfire relief efforts, Charlie Overbey & Vanessa Dingwall, founders of Lone Hawk Hats & Honeywood Vintage, launched an auction across social media, where fans bid on their iconic signed hats. Benefiting Sweet Relief Natural Disaster Fund, signed hats were available daily, including but not limited to, singer/songwriter LP, Blackberry Smoke frontman Charlie Starr, Black Crowes’ Chris Robinson, Taime Downe from Faster Pussycat, along with actors, Cree Summer, Dan Stevens, Josh Holloway, Brian Konoval, 1883 & 1923 Costume designer Gaby Acosta, among others. ### Connect with Sweet Relief Musicians Fund: Website | Instagram | Facebook | X For Sweet Relief Musicians Fund press inquiries, please contact: Jeff Kilgour | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 917.678.4420 HARPER HOUSE MUSIC FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES THEY WILL MATCH ALL DONATIONS TO SWEET RELIEF MUSICIANS FUND12/3/2025 IN THE MONTH OF DECEMBER, UP TO $50,000  Photo credit: Neal Casal New York, NY (December 2, 2025) - Rooted in the belief that music is a vital and universal source of connection, joy, and meaning, Harper House Music Foundation (HHMF) seeks to be an agent of change by facilitating efforts that help artists share their work, lead stable and healthy lives, and preserve their unique legacies. Every donation towards Sweet Relief Musicians Fund in the month of December, Harper House Music Foundation will match up to $50,000. Sweet Relief Musicians Fund provides services and financial assistance for career musicians and music industry professionals. Grants are earmarked for medical and vital living expenses, including insurance premiums, prescriptions, medical treatment and operative procedures, housing costs, food costs, utilities, and other basic necessities.
On the donation, Aric Steinberg, Executive Director at Sweet Relief Musicians Fund shares “Our friends at Harper House Music Foundation have stepped up once again to help us provide a safety net for our music community, and we could not be more grateful for their continued support. This end of year campaign is vital to our mission, and this matching gift will have a huge impact on the number of musicians and music industry workers we’re able to help via our emergency financial assistance grants”. Stephen Sullens, Founder and President at Harper House Music Foundation adds, “We’ve admired Sweet Relief’s work helping artists for decades, and are excited to expand our recent LA fire relief funding to more programmatic support through our year-end match. Incentivizing donations to Sweet Relief as they continue to be such a significant force for good within our music community is core to Harper House Music Foundation's mission.” For more information about Sweet Relief Musicians Fund and ways to donate, visit https://www.sweetrelief.org/ ### Connect with Sweet Relief Musicians Fund: Website | Instagram | Facebook | X Connect with Harper House Music Foundation Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn For Sweet Relief Musicians Fund press inquiries, please contact: Jeff Kilgour | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 917.678.4420 Allie Gruensfelder | The Syndicate | [email protected] | 201.864.0900 x264 For Harper House Music Foundation press inquiries, please contact: Ken Weinstein | Big Hassle Media | [email protected] Noise Pop Supports Sweet Relief during Giving Tuesday with $3 per ticket Donations to Select Shows12/2/2025  For Giving Tuesday today, Noise Pop will be donating $3 for every ticket purchased for the following shows to Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, to support our mission of helping musicians and music industry workers in need!
🎶DeVotchKa "A Tribute to the Music of Little Miss Sunshine" Sat, Feb 21 at Gray Area GET TICKETS 🎶Playboy Manbaby Tue, Feb 24 at Kilowatt GET TICKETS 🎶Shannon Shaw and Friends at KQED Live Thu, Feb 26 at KQED HQ GET TICKETS 🎶Ether Rose Sun, Mar 1 at Kilowatt GET TICKETS |
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Sweet Relief Musicians Fund 2650 E Imperial Hwy Ste 208 Brea, CA 92821-6135 Tel. 714-626-0447 Fax 714-626-0473 Toll Free Assistance line 888-955-7880 |
Sweet Relief Musicians Fund is a 501(c)3 non-profit charity. Federal ID# 95-4443269
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