The Beacon Theatre in New York City hosted an incredible line-up last night during the fourth annual LOVE ROCKS NYC, a benefit concert for God’s Love We Deliver.
Since its inception, the LOVE ROCKS NYC concert series has raised more than $10 million dollars, and have helped to fund approximately 1 million meals to New Yorkers in need. Executive produced by iconic international fashion designer John Varvatos, NYC top real estate broker and God’s Love We Deliver Board of Trustees member Greg Williamson and Nicole Rechter of UpperWest Music Group, the concert has proven a lot of things, including the ability to thrive in trying times.
Thursday morning, in response to the rapid progression of COVID-19 and necessary medical protocols, the producers and God’s Love We Deliver jointly decided the concert would happen in front of a restricted audience, but be available – free of charge – as a live stream and the energy was as big as ever!
“The health and well-being of our clients and supporters is always our top concern and priority,” said the concert’s executive producers and God’s Love We Deliver. “We are extremely grateful to our supporters, sponsors, and fans for their understanding and cooperation as we manage a very difficult situation.”
“When God’s Love started 35 years ago, it was in response to the AIDS pandemic, and here we are again, back in a health crisis that’s gripping our city,” said Karen Pearl, President & CEO of God’s Love We Deliver. “But thanks to our supporters and our staff, this week we have delivered a supply of shelf-stable food to our clients who are too sick to shop or cook for themselves in addition to their regular meals.”
Nothing was going to interfere with the night’s mission. As the concert details were being worked out, every artist scheduled to perform stuck around and gave it their all. With Music Director and Band Leader Will Lee at the helm, the audience was treated to spectacular performances by Dave Matthews, Chris & Rich Robinson of The Black Crowes, Jackson Browne, Cyndi Lauper, Leon Bridges, Warren Haynes, Joss Stone, Pedrito Martinez, Jimmy Vivino, Marcus King, The War & Treaty and a special surprise performance by Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks. Late night legend David Letterman dropped in, and emcees Paul Shaffer and Tamara Tunie kept the energy high. The evening concluded with all of the artists on stage for a rousing group rendition of “All You Need is Love.”