SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 25, 2011
Memphis, TN – The students of the University of Memphis’ music industry program and their associated record labels, student-run Blue TOM Records and blues, jazz and gospel-oriented High Water Records, will be hosting a benefit concert and fundraiser for the MUSIC MAKER RELIEF FOUNDATION at the historic New Daisy Theatre on Beale Street, Thursday, April 21, 2011.
The benefit concert is a musical salute to Memphis-based WILLIE MITCHELL’S ROYAL STUDIOS, with various artists who have recorded for the studio over the years showcasing their appreciation for Royal’s services and support of blues music over the years through performance. An awards ceremony will honor the proprietors of the studio, whose clients include such artists such as O.V. Wright, Ann Peebles, Otis Clay, Barbara Blue, Jay Gaunt, Syl Johnson, and Al Green. Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell, the owner of WILLIE MITCHELL’S ROYAL STUDIOS and his family will be the benefit concert’s guests of honor. Proceeds from the event will benefit the MUSIC MAKER RELIEF FOUNDATION, INC.
MUSIC MAKER is a tax-exempt, public charity that provides support for Southern musicians who are 55 years or older and have an annual income of less than $18,000. The foundation offers Musician Sustenance grants to meet basic life needs and emergency relief, Musical Development grants for artists’ professional development and career advancement, and a Cultural Access program, which supports the preservation and proliferation of American musical traditions.
The event kicks off at 7pm. Doors open at 6pm. Ticket cost are $10.00 in advance for general admission and $15.00 at the door with premium seating available for event sponsors. Tickets are available beginning April 1st at the New Daisy box office (Beale Street), Spin Street Music (Poplar Plaza) or online via Pay Pal at www.highwaterrecords.com. Patrons that purchase tickets to the event or make a donation of ten dollars or more will receive a free copy of the album “BLUES IN BLACK & WHITE” created by High Water and Blue TOM Records. The ten-track album project was recorded and produced entirely by University of Memphis music industry program students, alumni and local musicians.
Individuals or businesses interested in sponsoring the event with monetary or in-kind donations may contact Stacy Kline at (724) 272-9956 or bluetomrecords@gmail.com.
