John Lennon's 70th birthday will be celebrated with a massive charity concert in New York.
The concert, on November 12, will be held at the Beacon Theatre and will feature Jackson Browne, Patti Smith, Cyndi Lauper, Aimee Mann and many more.
Lennon’s birthday is on October 9, and a number of events will be held from that date to celebrate the former Beatle’s 70th.
Proceeds from the concert will go to the Playing For Change Foundation, whose global mission is to promote peace and positive change through the universal language of music. By building music schools in countries that suffer from extreme poverty, the Playing For Change Foundation provides resources and opportunities to these communities in need, empowering them with the ability to establish thriving and sustainable economies. Additionally, the Playing For Change Foundation, with the support of Theatre Within, will also launch its worldwide “Power to the People” campaign in November. This campaign aims to raise awareness and funds for the Playing For Change Foundation by aligning with John Lennon’s vision of peace and unity.
“John’s music and message continue to be a great inspiration to people all around the world, but he holds a special place in the hearts of New Yorkers,” noted Joe Raiola, who in addition to producing the Tribute, will be performing in it for the 30th consecutive year. “John and his music still live on, and gathering in his memory and honor is a great joy.”
“We are thrilled to participate as Theatre Within’s charity partner for the 30th Annual John Lennon Tribute,” said Whitney Kroenke, co-founder and executive director of the Playing For Change Foundation. “John Lennon was a hugely inspirational artist and a humanitarian of epic proportions and we are honored that Yoko has given Playing For Change Foundation her blessing, as it is our mission to inspire, connect and bring peace to the world through music.”
Also set to appear at the concert are Keb' Mo', Joan Osborne, Martin Sexton, Shelby Lynne, Taj Mahal, Meshell Ndegeocello, Alejandro Escovedo, the Playing For Change Band, The Kennedys, Vusi Mahlasela, Rich Pagano of the Fab Faux, YouTube sensation Chris Bliss, Wendy Osserman Dance and the Tribute’s co-creator and MAD Magazine Senior Editor, Joe Raiola.
Tickets for the Tribute will go on-sale on Monday, September 20th at 10am and will be available on BeaconTheatre.com, Ticketmaster.com or by calling 866-858-0008. Ticket prices are $304.50 for VIP Seats, $179.50, $139.50, $99.50 and $79.50. Additional information is available at LennonTribute.org, which features an online press kit and photos, videos from past Tributes, a Tribute blog and original exclusive content for John Lennon fans everywhere.
