To say that Willie Nelson is a legend is a bit of an understatement. Songwriter, performer, actor, activist, Nelson is a true American icon. On Friday, May 9, nine CT musicians come together at Arch Street Tavern in Hartford to celebrate his music and one of his causes. The 2014 Willie Nelson Birthday Bash is not only a celebration of the life and times of Nelson, but of his work with local, independent farmers. Nelson, of course, is one of the founders of the Farm Aid franchise that’s raised millions of dollars to help independent farms stay afloat in the face of the dreaded factory farm system. All proceeds on Friday night from The Willie Nelson Birthday Bash will benefit the Connecticut chapter of NOFA – the Northeast Organic Farmers Association. Great music for a great cause indeed. If you need any other reason to be there that night here’s nine of them:
Krizta Moon – Phenomenal singer/songwriter from the burgeoning Northwest corner of CT. Check out her cover of one of Willie’s dear friends…
Andy Wakeman – Wakeman is a young guy with an old soul and that’s reflected in his brand of country-infused folk.
Hannah Fair – One of the best young voices to come out of CT in a long time. Hannah Fair has already performed at the CT Music Awards and done a Daytrotter Session and we’re not even positive she’s old enough to drink yet.
Frank Critelli & Mark Mirando – Critelli and Mirando are CT music vets whose collaborations never get stale. Critelli has a new album due out soon and advanced listens have been very, very promising.
The And Band – You fancy your country mixed with a little punk rock? Then you’re in for a treat because these “cowpunks” are going to light up the stage.
Lys Guillorn Band – Her Winged Victory album was one of our favorites last year. Now Lys Guillorn is hitting the stage with a full backing band and fresh off a killer performance at the Meriden Daffodil Festival.
The Backyard Committee – Big things are brewing for this band and for good reason. In a state littered with some truly amazing alt country/Americana acts, The Backyard Committee are one of the best around.
Them Damn Hamiltons – Connecticut’s masters of the new American Gothic. Their brand of Americana is a dark, noir brand of influences that coalesce into something rootsy yet ethereal.
Elison Jackson – Fresh off being nominated in multiple categories for this year’s CT Music Awards (including song of the year for “2009” which will be performed at The Bushnell on June 10), Elison Jackson cap the night off with an electrifying blend of what they have dubbed “stoner soul” and “Garage folk.”
Lonesome Noise 