On Thursday, March 13, the stars aligned for a rare and memorable night that brought people, young and old, together for a special cause. Billy Bob Productions hosted “Carry On: The Songs of Laurel Canyon” to raise funds for the victims of the LA wildfires.
After seeing the roster, I knew it would be a great show. Brad Barr, Lee Baum and Tom Shemer with their son Ben (The Damn Truth), Howard Bilerman, Shane Murphy, Jasmine Bleile, Chris Velan and members of El Coyote Angela Desveaux, Katie Moore, Mike O’Brien, Michelle Tompkins, Murray Lightburn of The Dears, Matthew Woodley of Plants and Animals. Just to name a few.
The benefit concert took place at the gorgeous and historic Grande Salle performance room at Le 9e. It was spacious yet intimate (200 capacity), and I loved the Art Deco design. I had never been there before and I’m looking forward to seeing more shows there in the future.
I knew that various artists would be performing songs from the 60’s and 70’s. What I was not expecting was a setlist that featured so many of my favourites that I ended up singing along the entire night. And I was not the only one.
Some of Montreal’s finest musicians donated their time to salute the songbook of Laurel Canyon, which was home to some of the most influential singers, songwriters and bands in music history. (Joni Mitchell, David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Graham Nash, Neil Young, Buffalo Springfield, The Byrds, The Doors, Love, Linda Ronstadt, Jackson Browne, Gram Parsons, Warren Zevon and so many others.)
The artists took turns on vocals, guitar and piano, sometimes overcrowding the tiny stage with an abundance of talent and heart. They were not simply doing covers but paying homage to singers/songwriters that changed the landscape of music. Songs that shifted the social climate and elevated consciousness with a strong focus on community.
Opening with CSNY’s “Carry On,” the guitars and harmonies were heavenly. Seeing so many talented and seasoned musicians performing great classics together was really special. Feeling their generosity of spirit and true admiration for each other was next level.
“Rejoice, rejoice we have no choice but to carry on”
Throughout the entire evening, the musicians who were performing would smile at each other like they were jamming with friends. And those who weren’t were clapping and singing along in the crowd. No one was trying to outshine anyone; everyone had the same goal. The vibes were high and the love was deep.
My highlights of the night were “You’re So Vain,” “Big Yellow Taxi,” and “Helpless.” “Werewolves of London” was a fun surprise. I love the fact that I had no idea what song would be next or who would be performing it. It made the night even more exciting.
When Lee-la Baum and Tom Shemer came out, you could feel the voltage increase on the stage. Lee-la was as excited to give us the backstory of the song as she was to sing it for us. “Almost Cut My Hair” was the song she sang with Tom on the day they met. They had never performed it together live before and they were being joined on drums by their son Ben. It was definitely the most passionate performance of the evening.
The most electrifying was Shane Murphy, kicking the shit out of “LA Woman” and “Roadhouse Blues.” The stage was crammed with multiple guitarists, keyboardist, piano player, harmonica player, backup singers, and they all brought it hard.
The show ended on a sweet note with the Beach Boys’ “God Only Knows,” which had all of us on our feet singing and dancing. I don’t know if it was the blood full moon or the lunar eclipse, but I don’t think I was the only one that was transported to Laurel Canyon last night.
At a time where the world is becoming more divisive and the social climate is becoming more toxic, it’s good to know that music is still here to uplift and unite us. And that there are people who want to help their community regardless of borders or political beliefs.
MusiCares was founded by the Recording Academy in 1989. It provides a safety net to members of the Los Angeles music community.
Review – Annette Aghazarian
Photos – Alex Distaulo & Annette Aghazarian
