On June 2nd, we had the privilege of attending Give an Hour's A Celebration of Service VIP Reception and Benefit Concert at B.B. King Blues Club in New York City. The organization threw together an exquisite night that included great food, drinks and of course performances from a bunch of talented artists. The event focused on honoring our military men and women and those who serve them.
All proceeds from the night benefited Give an Hour, a national nonprofit organization providing free mental health services to members of the military, veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, their loved ones, and their communities. They are the only group that gives free mental health services to not only those who have served, but their families, loved ones, unmarried partners and communities as well. They provide free counseling services in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and Guam, for however long is needed.
The night kicked off with speeches from those who have served in the military, family members of those serving, and even performers from the benefit concert. Members from Give an Hour played moving videos that described just how much of an impact this organization really has. In the back of the room, there was an auction table that included everything from a Billy Joel signed box set of The Stranger to first class tickets and a two night stay in Florida.
Before long, it was time for the benefit concert part of the evening. First up, was The 9th. This New York native brought a strong R&B vibe. He sang his new single "Young & Reckless", winning over the crowd.
Then, it was Gloria Reuben's turn. Many know this Emmy and Golden Globe nominee from her time as Jeanie Boulet on ER. She's even been in films like Nick of Time, Shaft, and Timecop. We loved the jazz feel she had in her music, especially when she switched up Mariah Carey's "Hero".
Next came a performance from the band The Secret State. The electronic, rock sounding band is currently signed to an independent record deal with Stealth Tiger Entertainment in 2012. What we enjoyed most from these guys were their energy. When they took the stage, you could feel the room light up. They were rocking out and seemed to really enjoy themselves, as did the crowd.
Country artist Danielle Peck soon followed. She was adorable. One of our favorite parts of her performance was when she would talk to the audience. She was so personable and it's safe to say we became fans by the end of her set. "Findin' a Good Man" is our new jam.
Then there was Kris Allen. He first became a household name when he won American Idol back in 2009. Since then, he's been keeping busy touring with the likes of Keith Urban, Maroon 5, and Lifehouse. His latest album, "Thank You Camellia" was released last May to much success. His set consisted of three songs, "Better With You", "Monster" and "Live Like We're Dying". Allen had the crowd singing along the way through. Just like Peck, Allen is very likable on stage. It was clear that everyone in that room loved him.
Last, but not least, was Mark Rivera. Rivera is known for his time in the Billy Joel Band and as Ringo Starr's music director. The one thing we took away from his performance was that he was smiling the whole night through. It's so nice to see people who love what they're doing. He performed backup vocals for Peck and Allen, but for his own set he sang many of the classics we all know and love. These of course included "With a Little Help From My Friends" and "My Girl". He had the room swaying, and one couple in the very back of the room ballroom dancing.
We had a blast covering Give an Hour's A Celebration of Service Event. The night left all those who attended very inspired to reach out and donate whatever they could to this great cause. What a wonderful evening. Thank you so much to everyone at Give an Hour for granting us the opportunity to attend.
Make sure to follow Give an Hour on Twitter here and check out their official site here to see what you can do to help out.
