Josh H. Muller & team member - courtesy of John "NuNu" Zomot
We had a true celebration of life last Tuesday at the Hard Rock Cafe Chicago. Overall, the event was a success! Despite the rain, people showed up ready to celebrate and yet eager to learn more about the documentary and organ donation. Donate Life Illinois was on hand to register organ donors on the spot and share transplant success stories while the Living Kidney Donor Network counseled guests about the importance of living donation.
Music was not the only cultural flavor being served that evening. Mihir Shah, President of Cobra Corn, provided free samples of his Mumbai Masala spiced popcorn throughout the night. I was particularly thrilled to have Mihir at the event given his transplant success story. After having a heart transplant one month ago, Mihir wasted no time getting back on his feet, continuing the launch of his new company.
Mihir Shah - courtesy John "NuNu" Zomot
The night began with BS Brass Band saucing up the crowd with authentic New Orleans Mardi Gras flavor.
BS Brass Band - courtesy of John "NuNu" Zomot
Soon after, we were blessed with a jaw-dropping performance by Jamiah “On Fire” & The Red Machine, three of the most adorable musicians to ever play the blues. Period. Lead guitarist/frontman, Jamiah, only 15 years old, blew us away with Hendrix’s Foxy Lady displaying the passion and grit necessary to do it justice. The dance floor, balcony, and stairwells were all packed with people in absolute awe. I’m officially a fan.
Jamiah "On Fire" & the Red Machine - courtesy of John "NuNu" Zomot
Although Vance Kelly’s Purple Rain and Funkedesi’s No Woman No Cry topped my most memorable list, the true climax of the show, however, occurred when special guests, grammy award-winning Malik Yusef and Damon Ranger of Black Box took the stage with Funkedesi, pumping out an energetic eclectic mix of all things funky. A great show of Chicago’s finest talent. Visit the film’s Facebook page to see a short clip of their performance.
In the coming weeks, I look forward to returning to Chicago to begin filming the next phase of the documentary. All funds raised at the event will support the continued filming of Theryl “Houseman” DeClouet’s story and his struggle to revive his singing career while waiting for a kidney transplant. We have not reached our fundraising goal and still need your help to complete the documentary. Donations to the film may still be made here.
Houseman & Jamiah "On Fire" - courtesy of John "NuNu" Zomot
Thanks again to everyone for your support and a very extra special thanks to Scott Fetters, Emily Swan, and the entire Hard Rock Cafe Chicago staff for making this event such a huge success.
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