On February 11, 2005, musician and humanitarian Brian Wilson was honored for his efforts both in and out of the studio. Every one knows Brian Wilson as one of the founders of the musical group the Beach Boys. He was well regarded as a composer, musician, and producer. Many may be un-aware of as his role as a philanthropic humanitarian.
Over the years, Wilson has used his time and talent to enhance causes for both his own personal interests as well as those of his contemporaries. He has supported the Carl Wilson Foundation for cancer research (his younger brother died from the disease in 1998), the Adopt-a-Minefield Benefit with Paul McCartney and Neal Young’s Bridge School Concert.
Musicares: A Tribute to Brian Wilson (2006) is a record of this honor. With performances by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jeff Beck, Richie Sambora, Backstreet Boys, John Legend, Michael McDonald and others.
The evening starts off with the Red Hot Chili Peppers doing “I Get Around.” To me this was uninspiring. While Flea seemed ready to rock, Anthony Kiedis, I felt, was going through the motions and ready to get off the stage - which he did almost before the music stopped. They were never to be seen again.
Next was Richie Sambora with “City Blues.” Now we start rocking! This was followed by a great rendition of “Sail on Sailor” by Jamie Cullum with Fred Martin and the Levite Camp. A smooth sailing song turned gospel; it worked well.
Barenaked Ladies were up next to do the only non-Brian Wilson tune of the night. A song, appropriately called “Brian Wilson” with “Til I Die” folded in for good measure. John Legend did “I Just Wasn’t Made for These Times.” A soulful performance that by a great singer!
The Backstreet Boys then did “When I Grow Up To Be A Man” and turn in an absolutely brilliant performance with their great harmonies. This was one of the performances that would be worth the price of admission and I am not a Backstreet Boys fan by any stretch.
Shelby Lynn does a good version of “Surfer Girl” and then is followed up by Michael McDonald and Billy Preston doing “Don’t Worry Baby.” The song is well done and as always, the keyboard work of Billy Preston is wonderful. Michael McDonald screwed up the lyrics a little bit, but the vocal work in general was awesome.
.jpg?t=20130517094513)
Article comments
1 - Brien Comerford
Jeff Beck is simply amazing. At age 63 he is arguably the greatest living guitarist. He keeps in shape with a vegetarian diet and he gets lots of exercise at his British Estate where he rigorously landscapes and works on hot rods.
2 - Wayne Six
Thank you for your great comments about Jeff Beck.I attended a Beck show at the Majestic Theatre in Dallas some time ago with Mayall guitarist,Buddy Whittington,who said"Watching Beck is like watching art take place."I could'nt agree more.Thanks again. Peace.