The 9th Annual Love Rocks NYC

Last night’s sold-out ninth annual LOVE ROCKS NYC Benefit Concert for God’s Love We Deliver brought the house down at the historic Beacon Theatre with another spectacular night of live music! The four-hour plus concert was hosted by Alex Edelman, Amy Schumer, Susie Essman and Tracy Morgan. 

The night, helmed by Music Director and Bandleader Will Lee, showcased stellar performances from music icons and contemporary stars alike including Alicia Keys, Beck, Cher, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Dave Stewart Eurythmics feat. Vanessa Amorosi, Eric Burton of Black Pumas, Grace Bowers, Jesse Malin, Kate Hudson, Luke Spiller, Mavis Staples, Michael McDonald, Peter Frampton, and Trey Anastasio.

Our President & CEO Terrence Meck welcomed the audience at The Beacon and all those watching from home, speaking about the importance of the God’s Love We Deliver life-saving medically tailored meal program. He inspired us all to get involved with God’s Love We Deliver now to care for our clients and their families at this critical time. He spoke about the nourishment of body and soul that our nutritious meals provide, and the love that comes in every bite and with every delivery.

The evening also included a special appearance by Bill Murray.

The show raised more than $4 million, which will allow God’s Love to deliver more than 400,000 meals.

The one and only, legendary Cher electrified the evening, kicking off her three-song set dressed as fellow icon Elvis Presley and delivering a stunning cover of “Walking in Memphis.” Her second hit, “(This Is) A Song for the Lonely,” had the audience on their feet, while images of old New York played behind her, celebrating the spirit of the city’s resilience. She closed the set with her hit song—and one of the best-selling singles in music history—“Believe.” The day before the show, God’s Love We Deliver had been honored to have Cher visit our kitchen to thank our volunteers and staff. We are so grateful to Cher for her love and support!

Alicia Keys opened the show with a cover of Roberta Flack’s timeless track “Killing Me Softly,” while paying homage to the city of New York with her hit “Empire State of Mind.” Eric Burton of Black Pumas followed with a soulful rendition of “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay,” prompting the crowd to join in for an unforgettable sing-along. Kate Hudson wowed the audience with a powerful performance of “Gonna Find Out,” bringing an exciting energy to the whole venue.

The crowd was treated to a stunning performance by Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, whose rendition of Jimi Hendrix’s “Red House” featured a harmonica solo by Danny Clinch and an electrifying guitar solo that had the audience cheering mid-song. Bill Murray took the stage next, getting the entire audience on their feet and dancing to his cover of “Love the One You’re With.” Five-time Love Rocks NYC performer, the legendary Mavis Staples, received an immediate standing ovation upon hitting the stage. She was joined by Michael McDonald for a moving performance of “I’ll Take You There.”

Highlights of the night included an appearance from acclaimed LA-based actor Steve Gutenberg, who made an impromptu trip to NYC upon learning of our support of our Food is Medicine Coalition organization Project Angel Food, which is receiving a portion of the night’s proceeds in response to the devastating LA wildfires.

Up-and-coming artist Grace Bowers took the spotlight alongside guitar legends Peter Frampton and Trey Anastasio, before shredding her way through a remarkable solo performance that wowed the crowd. Luke Spiller performed his debut single live for the first time, impressing the audience with his unique stage presence. Then, Dave Stewart Eurythmics, joined by Vanessa Amorosi, performed two of his greatest hits “Here Comes the Rain Again” and “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” leaving the crowd in awe. Beck wowed the Beacon with his hit “Loser” and a cover of Prince’s “1999.”

The night concluded with an all-star performance of Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Ground,” which embodied the event’s celebration of unity.

Thank you to all of our sponsors, especially presenting sponsor Bloomberg Philanthropies, and the RJKB Family Charitable Foundation and the Secunda Family Foundation. Finally, none of this would be possible without our amazing Executive Producers John Varvatos, Greg Williamson, and Nicole Rechter.

Donate to the event at this link or text DELIVER to 41444.

Thank you for an unforgettable night!

 

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