Raleigh, NC (March 19, 2021) — There’s finally some good news for live music fans in the Triangle! Band Together and United Way of the Greater Triangle announced a partnership today that will deliver fans an in-person concert experience on October 23, 2021, pending health and safety guidelines at that time. Funds raised for the event will support Triangle recovery and stabilization now and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic and will be distributed to United Way’s upcoming slate of nonprofit partners as well as Band Together’s nonprofit recipients from the past 20 years. Concert tickets will be available for purchase beginning in the next few months.

Band Together and United Way are committed to adhering to all recommended health and safety protocols set by city and state officials leading up to the October 2021 concert date. In the event that the pandemic has not lessened significantly, as hoped and anticipated, Band Together will partner with the headlining band to find an alternative concert date for 2022. All tickets sold for the original concert date will be honored for the new date or refunded on an as-needed basis.

“There is such power in live music that it can not only bring people together but also help in the healing process. Band Together believes we’re greater together and is thrilled to team up with United Way of the Greater Triangle to help in the recovery and rebuilding process of our beloved community,” said Thorne Daubenspeck, Band Together’s Executive Director. “There is light at the end of the tunnel. We look forward to working side by side with United Way to help raise money for many incredible Triangle nonprofits that serve our community.”

Band Together was founded by Triangle community leaders as a response to the national tragedies of September 11, 2001. Their vision has evolved from raising funds to support international tragedies to raising funds and awareness for various nonprofits in the Triangle. Alongside a vast network of volunteers and nonprofit partners, the organization has donated over $10 million to benefit the local community.

United Way of the Greater Triangle’s mission is to eradicate poverty and increase social mobility through the power of partnerships. It’s in pursuit of that mission that the nonprofit organization funds 85+ nonprofit partners in Wake, Durham, Orange, and Johnston Counties, NC each year. While United Way has led community fundraising and support efforts for decades, the organization has also been at the forefront of Triangle recovery and stabilization efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization notably launched its Rapid Response Fund in March 2020 and has since raised and distributed more than $1.4M to 104 nonprofits working overtime to support the region’s most vulnerable residents. To learn more about the United Way’s emergency response impact to date, click here.

The two organizations plan to announce the concert line-up in the next few months. Fans can stay tuned to Band Together and United Way of the Greater Triangle’s websites for more information.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated local individuals and families who were already struggling with the immense challenges that come with poverty. And for as long as it takes to help our neighbors get back on their feet, United Way will be there,” said Eric Guckian, United Way of the Greater Triangle’s President and CEO. “It’s going to take our entire community to recover and stabilize following this pandemic. We can’t think of a better way to engage all Triangle residents than through the power of music, and Band Together’s annual concert is the best one we know. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone there on October 23.”

This is not the first time in recent history that Band Together and United Way of the Greater Triangle have partnered for community impact. The two organizations hosted the “Call For Change: Band Together Against Racism” telethon in partnership with WRAL, DPAC, and Lincoln Theatre in August 2020 and raised $200,800 to support local leaders of color and anti-racism, systems-level solutions to poverty through United Way’s Anti-Racism Community Fund.

United Way of the Greater Triangle is currently in the midst of its Request For Proposals process, which happens every other year and will ultimately decide which local nonprofits the organization will fund between July 2021 and June 2023. The nonprofits selected during this process will be the ones to receive the additional funds raised through the Band Together event. The two organizations plan to announce that official list this May. Stay tuned to www.unitedwaytriangle.org for that information.

About Band Together NC

Band Together NC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization composed of business and community leaders and volunteers from across the Triangle. Since its inception, the organization has donated over $10 million to 20 philanthropic organizations through one mission: connecting the community to nonprofits through the power of live music. Band Together’s annual concert event is organized and led by a team of more than 200 volunteers. Band Together’s Main Event has become the Southeast’s largest annual charitable music event, bringing music with a mission to over 50,000 concert goers.

About United Way of the Greater Triangle

United Way of the Greater Triangle’s mission is to eradicate poverty and increase social mobility through the power of partnerships, with support provided across four counties: Durham, Johnston, Orange, and Wake, NC. Through three impact focus areas – Cradle to Career, Healthy Families, and Equity in Leadership – United Way supports 84 nonprofit organizations doing the on-the-ground work needed to break the cycle of poverty. To learn more, visit www.unitedwaytriangle.org.

Universally regarded as one of the top vocalists in the world, with a legion of ardent fans including Patti LaBelle, President Obama, Fantasia, etc., “The Essential Beverly Crawford – VOL. 2” features Grammy & Stellar winner Beverly Crawford in her element along with a bevy of legendary guest vocalists including soul icon Shirley Murdock, Shawn McLemore and more!

In WALMART stores everywhere, “THE ESSENTIAL BEVERLY CRAWFORD – VOL. 2” is the follow-up to Beverly’s #1 chart-toppers “He’s Done Enough”, which dominated the Billboard Charts for over 70+ weeks & garnered 7 Stellar Award nods (including Album of the Year, Artist of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year, etc), “It’s About Time For A Miracle”, and “Sweeping Through The City” which debuted #1 on Billboard Sales Chart!

JDI Records/Sony – Available Now:
https://www.walmart.com/ip/The-Essential-Beverly-Crawford-Vol-2/410024959

Attendees this year had the opportunity to experience over 100 performances as diverse as the attendees. Artsplosure made sure there was something for everyone at First Night Raleigh. Whether you are one or one hundred and one, there was something here for you.

First Night Raleigh was the place to be starting off early in the day with fun-filled activities for those young attendees. What better way to start the day than with the toddler play area and story time? Other young attendees attended the DIY Party Crown or participated in the Art Put Miniature golf or even played the Art Piano, just to name a few. Young attendees did not miss out on the celebration as they too enjoyed an early countdown at 7:00 pm on the main stage at City Plaza.

Others both young and old enjoyed First Night Raleigh by just sitting back and enjoying the Ferris Wheel or a ride on the Gold Leaf Sleigh or maybe singing on the Jolly Raleigh Singing Trolley.  While others also wanted to enjoy the music of the sounds of Acappella Venue featuring the High Seas, Cane Mill Road, Holly Ghost Tent Revival, Marurice Launcher Praise Band, Peter Ingram, BeeBop Blues, Shana Tucker ChamberSoul with Beverly Botsford and Gregg Gelb and the Triangle youth Jazz Orchestra, to name a few. Additionally others were able to attend open Mic Night Brian Jones at the new Imurj space to listen to 12 of Raleigh’s finest emerging artists.

Did all of the great musical performances inspire you to do a little ballroom dancing or did you go to on demand poetry or were you inspired by the African American Dance Ensemble? What better way to have fun than to laugh. ComedyWorx made us laugh again this year.

First Night Raleigh was magical with all of the music, food, rides, performances and lights from Lite Bright. First Night Raleigh was a great way for attendees to also express their creative side with the Black Light Message Room, to make lanterns or chalkboard pens to participate in the scrap exchange.

Never the less, First Night Raleigh had something for everyone to experience as a first. Who would have known that at the end of 2017, you got to experience your first of something, just like the First Robotics Competition Team 435.

First Night Raleigh had something for everyone whether it’s attending one of the more than three dozen indoor venues to marching in the people procession. First Night Raleigh had it covered with more than the 100 performances within the 21 blocks of downtown Raleigh.

Who could leave without expressing how much fun was had or what 2018 would bring without expressing it by utilizing the New Year Will Chalkboard or the Wish Tree, in addition to many others deciding to take a photo at the photo booth to put it away in the time capsule.

It was with the drop of the acorn symbolizing the end of an event filled with a diverse range of activities that presented something for everyone in the diverse city of Raleigh. 2018 came in with the 27^th annual First Night Raleigh, once more being a big success with a day filled with activities for everyone regardless of age. Be sure to be at the 28^th Annual First Night Raleigh celebration.

Fred Mills has played with and opened up for some of the biggest acts in funk and R&B music. Fred recalls, “I had the honor to perform on stage with Doug Wimbish, bassist for Living Colour, Dennis Chambers, Cindy Mizelle, Chip Crawford, Aaron Mills, and Marcus Miller. In addition to an opening act for Graham Central Station, Mandrill, Parliament, Bar-Kays, Jimmy Castor, Ohio Players, Mothers Finest, Average White Band, BT Express, to name a few,” stated Fred. “I have also produced, composed and performed on the Atlantic Records album Chops. I was part of the horn section that went on tour with the Police, recorded with The Rolling Stones and Sugarhill Records. I rearranged and recorded Inez and Charlie Fox’ Mockingbird for Tameka Records. There are many more projects… too many to list.” Miles also states, “The work that was done for The Rolling Stones was when I was a part of CHOPS horn section on the Undercover album. I happened to make the horn arrangements for Teddy Riley when he was part of the R&B trio “Kids At Work”, which consisted of singer Clurel Henderson and bassist Timmy Gatling.”

When Fred recalls his musical footprints it was with great pride. According to Fred, “there are not many people who can say they have been part of a historical ground breaking production. I am speaking of the Betty Davis and the Nasty Girl album, I would have to say getting the phone call from Betty’s cousin, bass player Larry Johnson asking if I would come to New York to play with Betty. At that time I had no idea who Betty was. I was in Florida play with a band called Fungus Blues from Charlotte NC. Nasty Gal was the first recording I did with Betty and the first time I sang a little with her. At the time of the recording the band had been together about eight months and we were getting comfortable playing with each other. The unique situation with the band was the fact that we grew up together. Nicky Neal (drummer), and Larry Johnson (bass) are Betty’s first cousins. Carlos Morales (guitar) was a close family friend. We decided to call ourselves Funkhouse. When recording the album we really had no idea we were on to something special, we were just doing what we do. It feels great to know that your work has been recognized as something special all over the world.”

Fred describes his experiences as a musician priceless because it has provided him the opportunity to play all over the world and meet people he admired. “I can recall like it was yesterday, meeting Muhammad Ali, Richard Pryor, Roger Moore (007) Patti ,Chaka and so many others” This includes Betty Davis’s husband jazz great Miles Davis. “Miles was funny, brutally honest, a sick sense of humor, and a genius. He liked working with young musicians such as my homeboy keyboardist, Robert Irving III.

In 1984 Fred founded Sweet Dreams Productions and Band with Michael Porter, who was a member of the band Funkhouse along with Dwain Mitchell, a friend he met at Sugarhill Records who produced an album for the Ojays. The Sweet Dreams band is still working to this day. Through the years different personnel have come and gone, but none with the biggest impact of the death of Big Moore. Larry Moore was a great singer, bassist and guitarist. I really miss him. The members with the longest tenure are myself, James “Coffee” Yourse and Lynn Woods. I am proud that I was able to put together such a great group of musicians that have stood the test of time, and presented good music. Fred is also part owner of Upward Bound Recording Studio in his hometown, Reidsville NC. Upward Bound Recording Studio’s focus for the last year has been recording original and remakes. There most recent production is on local artist Sheika Asail. Sheika Asail first single will feature a rap by the Epic’s new artist Swift, who also has North Carolina roots.

Fred, himself has not been in the studio for some time due to illness. He is eager to get back to making music and we are eager to see what is next for him Fred says “it won’t be long and it’s Funk time.” In the meantime Fred is eager to see what fellow Funk Master Bootsy Collins will deliver. “I can’t wait for Bootsy’s new album to drop.”

North Carolina is rich in musical history with musicians like Fred Mills who has left his musical footprints in the landscape of music from his works with Betty Davis, CHOP, the Rolling Stones and so many others.

Hutch describes his childhood as being raised from very humble beginnings. “I come from humble beginnings but instead of using it as a crutch or excuse to kind of bullshit through life. I used it as
motivation and I decided at an early age I would determine my life. I would not let society or my situation, but my ability to get up and do what I wanted to do, determine how I live my life, whether it was rapping or working in a job making $180,000 a year.”

Hutch who is also inspired by the rapper Notorious B.I.G a.k.a. Biggie Smalls, grew up on the same block that Biggie use to hustle on when Biggie was in Raleigh. “I have a friend who knew and hung out with
Biggie and he has a Ready To Die poster where Biggie wrote the three things he was going to get when he made it big.”

Besides Biggie, Hutch has admired Andre 3000, Jay Z, Lil Wayne, Tupac and Lauryn Hill. In addition, he began to look at his music seriously after seeing the success and being inspired by Black Jeruz, who has produced for G-Unit, 50 Cent, and Busta Rhymes, to name a few.

Hutch describes his music as “My style of rap is raw energy. I play off energy; I translate off of the beat. I bring energy, realistic energy whether it’s good or bad.” “My music is emotion. It is an inspiration. I speak on things that I have issues with while growing, and ways I was able to overcome those problems.” When asked how would he describe himself, he replies “a man of perseverance and determination. My reality led me to put messages in songs and lyrics to a degree.” When asked who he is as an artist, he without hesitation replies, “I am a raw talent, a seasoned talent. I am energy personified.”

Hutch is a good example of how he determines his future. With a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management and near completion of a Master’s degree in Health Informatics, his career choices match Hutch as a person. He cares about people and delivers his life lessons learned through his lyrics and as Joey  his Master’s in Heath Informatics will enable him to come up with innovative ways of helping businesses solve complex problems.

“Every Time” the first release from his EP “The City” narrates the energy of positivity and love as it pertains to relationships in this fast-paced modern day. Hutch’s melodic flow pattern and witty wordplay blends effortlessly with the vintage sound of Swift on the vocals. Produced by N.C.’s own Kari Atare, this track seeks to capture the rawness of relationships in its entirety, everything from fears, to aspirations and dreams. Not often enough do we hear hip hop music that uplifts relationships. Rarely in this genre do we hear artists speak about love and respect for their counterparts. Every Time was written and intentionally authored to tailor to the couple or individual who loves passionately and has goal and desires to love someone.

Hutch believes his humble beginnings contributed to who he is as both a musician and man. “The things I like most about the city in which I was born and raised, Raleigh N.C., is the fact that we are a melting pot of sound, culture and tradition. With this, I mean, here in Raleigh, in terms of music, we are too Southern to make “East Coast” (NY, CT, IL, MI) music, but we are too Northern to

make “Down South” Music. This has led to a variation of sound within the Carolinas. I use this fact as motivation in terms of curating and confidently presenting my own sound. I use the slogan “Believe In Raleigh” for this very reason. I want my fan base or general listener to “Believe” in me, and trust that the experiences I’ve had growing up, life lessons I’ve learned, and am still learning, will all make for great music and or energy. I would like the listener/fan to believe in my ability to make the best out of my situation and hardships. I need my fans to not only believe in me, but to also believe in themselves. Through my music I’d like for the listener/fan to come away inspired to face any and all challenges he or she may face in and throughout their lives. This is a characteristic I’ve developed here in Raleigh”.

“It’s simple, in terms of the goal. Make it undeniable.” -R.O. Hutch

To find out more about R.O. Hutch you can visit his website at https://www.ROHutch.com

Follow the artist on his official portals; details are given as below:

Instagram: ROHutch919

Twitter: ROHutch919

YouTube: R.O. Hutch

SoundCloud: R.O. Hutch

One of gospel’s top singer/songwriters, Renee Spearman has worked with some of gospel’s biggest stars including Yolanda Adams, Dr. Bobby Jones, and Byron Cage, just to name a few.  With 4 Billboard topping releases in a row, Renee’s career has soared on highly regarded indie powerhouse label JDI Records (Beverly Crawford, Norman Hutchins, etc.)!

Featuring a sophisticated blend of praise & worship, contemporary gospel and traditional, “Good Morning! (You Made It)” is quickly becoming a powerhouse wake-up song at radio to remind you that whatever you’re going through – “Good Morning! (You Made It)”

Sharing “Lyrics, Logic and Lullabies” baby boomer songwriter Ed Verner is often described as a mellow Renaissance man whose piano-based music glides above the countryside. Taking what was a lifelong passionate hobby to the next level is a challenge that many fail, but businessman and songwriter Ed Verner is making headway. Since the summer of 2013, Ed Verner’s work has grown steadily, now to over 50 original song releases and nearly two dozen film project instrumental works.

Documenting his journey through videos, blogs and music, Ed shares the stories, beliefs and experiences of someone that has seen more than most as he continues to stay on track both in the professional world and a world that has not delivered fame, fortune, or Grammys — yet.

While accolades are nice, Ed would rather see them in audience growth and purchases of his EP’s and his songs. “It is not about a million dollar venture, it is more about venturing to be heard by as many people as possible that would connect, enjoy and share the songs.”

With the focus less on the idea of becoming a superstar or waiting for that illustrious record deal that doesn’t really exist anymore, Ed takes a more engaging approach on social media to share both his music but also about the man that creates it.

With posts that deter from the buy me, like me, follow me, share me tactics, Ed posts about his views on topics that range from narcissism versus self doubt, comparisons of music to other businesses, to a blog about Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Scotch — of course mixed with his music with videos and blogs about their meanings and how they came about.

In the end, Ed’s approach to “Lyrics, Logic and Lullabies” surpasses just the music, the intentions and the goals for a music career. His logic is a benchmark that the aspiring full time musician could gain as much from as the baby boomer hobbyist looking to explore music later in life.

Learn more at: http://lyricslogicandlullabies.com/.

Listen at: https://soundcloud.com/ed-verner/half-of-my-heart

Special Guests Include Grammy-Nominated Duo Thompson Square,
Luke Combs, Runaway June and Dee Jay Silver

Nashville, Tenn. (October 25, 2016) – Greenville native and platinum-selling country band, Parmalee announces the “Feels Like Carolina Flood Relief Benefit” to foster the aid of flood victims in North Carolina due to the devastating effects of Hurricane Matthew. 100% of net proceeds will go to the American Red Cross to help with flood relief specifically in Parmalee’s home state of North Carolina. Previously announced as the band’s annual “Feels Like Carolina”concert, details have remained the same, taking place at Parmalee’s alma mater of East Carolina University, in the Minges Coliseum on Friday, November 18.

Parmalee will be returning home with fellow BBR Music Group artists, Grammy-nominated country duo Thompson Square and harmonic-newcomers, Runaway June. North Carolina native and local favorite, Luke Combs along with RCA Nashville artist Dee Jay Silver will also perform to round out the lineup.

“We couldn’t imagine not making this year’s event a flood relief benefit,” says Paramlee’s lead vocalist and Greenville native Matt Thomas. “The people of North Carolina are our greatest supporters. We considered them family and we couldn’t leave them behind during this time of need. We knew something had to be done and we can’t thank the American Red Cross enough for their help in making this event happen.”

At it’s peak of destruction, Hurricane Matthew left nearly 900,000 homes and businesses without power. The natural disaster claimed a heartbreaking 26 lives in North Carolina while leaving 36,000 asking for federal assistance.

“The residents of Eastern North Carolina continue to feel the affects of Hurricane Matthew and the devastating flooding that forced hundreds of families from their homes,” said Barry Porter, regional CEO of the Red Cross in Eastern North Carolina. “In a time of uncertainty for these families, Parmalee is bringing a sense of comfort through music. We couldn’t be more thankful to Parmalee for supporting their home state and our neighbors in need!”

Parmalee’s “Feels Like Carolina” concert is an annual event to pay tribute to their home state and to thank the community for its support throughout the years. This year, Parmalee has teamed up with American Red Cross to return the favor and support North Carolina during its time of need with the “Feels Like Carolina Flood Relief Benefit.”

Tickets for the “Feels Like Carolina Flood Relief Benefit” concert are currently available. Additionally, a limited number of VIP tickets are available for purchase on a first come, first serve basis. VIP tickets include access to the exclusive VIP Party with a private acoustic performance by Parmalee and special guests, a meet-n-greet pass/photo opportunity with the band, a commemorative event t-shirt and VIP Event Parking. Tickets that have already been purchased for the “Feels Like Carolina” concert will be honored at the benefit.

For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.feelslikecarolina.com.

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 11, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — GRAMMY-winning music superstar Tim McGraw will perform live at the 2016 Belk Bowl FanFest concert being held this year at BB&T Ballpark in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Thursday, Dec. 29. The concert will precede the match-up of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and Southeastern Conference (SEC), which kicks off at 5:30 p.m. at Bank of America Stadium.

The “Humble and Kind” singer is a three-time GRAMMY Awards winner with more than 56 million records sold worldwide and 41 No. 1 singles to his name. The talented singer, songwriter and actor has racked up a list of impressive career credits including, among many honors, 16 Academy of Country Music Awards, 14 Country Music Association Awards, 10 American Music Awards, and big-screen appearances in films like “The Blind Side,” “Friday Night Lights” and “The Kingdom.”

“We couldn’t think of anyone better than a dynamic music icon like Tim McGraw to help celebrate the Belk Bowl’s 15^th anniversary with fans,” said Lisa Harper, CEO of Belk. “Tim brings incredible energy and Southern charm to his performances, and Belk can’t wait to share this memorable experience with ACC and SEC fans and visitors to Charlotte.”

The Belk Bowl FanFest is the Bowl’s marquee pregame celebration. In addition to the concert, fans also will enjoy live entertainment, interactive displays and a number of food and beverage options in uptown Charlotte at Mint Street and Romare Bearden Park. FanFest festivities begin at 11 a.m. with McGraw’s performance inside BB&T Ballpark scheduled for 2 p.m.

Important Ticket Information

• Individual tickets for the 2016 Belk Bowl are on sale now through TicketMaster and at participating schools.
• Fans MUST purchase a Belk Bowl game ticket or Super Fan Package to be eligible to attend the concert at BB&T Ballpark.
• Concert vouchers will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and will be given out only to the first 10,000 fans that show their official Belk Bowl game tickets at the BB&T Ballpark Ticket Office during two redemption days. Please note there are limited quantities of concert vouchers available each day.
  • Wednesday, Dec. 28 – 2 – 7 p.m.
  • Thursday, Dec. 29 – 8 – 11 a.m.

“We are very pleased to host the annual Belk Bowl concert at BB&T Ballpark this year,” stated Dan Rajkowski, the Charlotte Knights’ chief operating officer. “Belk has been a long-standing partner, and we couldn’t be more pleased to bring this great event to our ballpark.”

The Belk Bowl’s new, redesigned website (www.BelkBowl.com) is a destination for fans to get official information about the game and surrounding events.

College football’s only bowl game to call the Carolinas home, the Belk Bowl has long-term partnerships in place with Belk, ESPN, the ACC and SEC, all through 2019. Belk has been the title sponsor of the Belk Bowl since 2011, working to help increase the Bowl’s visibility both regionally and nationally.

“As Belk’s partner, we’re thrilled to be able to work with a company that has such a deep connection to the Carolinas and Southern hospitality,” said Will Webb, Belk Bowl Executive Director. “Together, we look forward to providing fans with a great experience to celebrate our 15^th anniversary milestone.”

About Belk, Inc.
Belk, Inc., a private department store company based in Charlotte, N.C., is the home of Modern. Southern. Style. with 293 Belk stores located in 16 Southern states and a growing digital presence. Belk is a portfolio company of Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm based in New York. Belk and www.belk.com offer a wide assortment of national brands and private label fashion apparel, shoes and accessories for the entire family along with top name cosmetics, a wedding registry and a large selection of quality merchandise for the home.

Belk offers many ways to connect via digital and social media, including Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Google Plus, and provides exclusive offers, fashion updates, sales notifications and coupons via email or mobile phone text messages. Customers can also download the latest Belk mobile apps for the iPad, iPhone or Android.

About The Charlotte Sports Foundation
The Charlotte Sports Foundation (CSF) is a 501(c)(3) organization created to provide leadership for sports-based initiatives that enhance the economy and quality of life in the Charlotte region. CSF provides unique events and business opportunities around professional, collegiate and amateur sporting events, highlighted by the annual Belk Bowl and Dr. Pepper ACC Football Championship, as well as, the Belk College Kickoff Games. These efforts are intended to create a positive economic impact in the region as well as to enhance the quality of life. The organization’s board of directors is comprised of regional business, industry and civic leaders who have a track record of bringing sports and economic development to the Charlotte area.