As a huge fan of the local Toronto music scene, I love frequenting small concerts to check out up and coming talent. But when I hear of concerts that have the sole purpose to benefit a charity, my heart is lifted. When artists, who in all reality really aren't making a whole lot of money take the time and the effort to use their gifts to benefit others it makes me feel good that people still care.
Female Rock Band Red Light Riot. Photo courtesy of Pete Nema. www.petenema.com
Rock the Foundation is a Not For Profit Organization dedicated to just that. In association with Focus on Live Music Group, Rock the Foundation has put on a four-part summer charity concert series in support of the Canadian Breast Cancer Society. I had the privilege of being invited to the second show in the series, which took place at Tattoo Rock Parlour.
The first concert of Rock The Foundation's summer series took place at the Rivoli and the third show took place at the Rivoli on August 14th and the final will be back at Tattoo on August 28th. Terry Kerr, the president and founder of Focus on Live Entertainment and Rock the Foundation is planning ahead. The next year looks to be a busy one with four series' a year, each focusing on a different charity. In the near future he is hoping to work with Covenant House, Heart & Stroke Foundation and Sick Kids.
The focus of Rock the Foundation is not solely on charity, but also on "seeking out the best in bands and nurturing new talent in (and around) the city." I had the opportunity of checking out four great bands; Kitchener based country rock band The Stars Here, the young aspiring humanitarians and rock stars Who's Army, and finally the powerful, female-fronted hard rock bands The Red Light Riot and Basia Lyjak.
According to Francine and Donna of The Red Light Riot (RLR) it's an amazing feeling to play for someone other than yourself. As a two-year-old band, RLR has been touring the local Toronto scene and loving the venues and the crowds. With an upcoming album release, they felt a need to take some time to help others while gaining exposure for themselves.
"It feels great to play for more than just your gas money, when you can play for something that actually means something" rousing words from members of the six year old band The Stars Here. "any cause is a great cause, it's great if you can get a bunch of artists on the same wavelength...it wouldn't matter if it (was) here in Toronto or anywhere else in Canada, if we can make it, we're going to show up."
In the words of Who's Army, "music is a very personal thing, but it's great to bring it out of the basement and share it, whether it's just to make someone dance or whether it's in support of an amazing cause, it's all good." I look forward to these bands sharing more of what they have to offer with this city and with any charity they choose to support. Keep an eye out for Rock The Foundation and if you?re looking for a night of great music and to feel good about what you're supporting, definitely check it out. www.rockthefoundation.com
Mark Rauwerda