Remember Those In Music Who Lost Everything This Thanksgiving

Most every Thanksgiving we all have so much to be thankful for, and for you this one might be no exception. There are many people suffering as a result of the devastating fires in California however, and more than a few of them are music figures that you know and love.

One is guitar maker Wayne Charvel who not only lost his home in the Paradise Fire, but also his workshop with all of the one-of-a-kind tools, jigs, and templates for his iconic instruments. Wayne’s son Michael, who also lost his home in the fire, outlines what happened in this story. Please consider donating through this GoFundMe campaign.

Iconic pianist Mike Garson, musical director for David Bowie and Trent Reznor and Smashing Pumpkins collaborator, lost everything in the fire including his home, his studio, and both of his precious grand pianos. Go to his GoFundMe campaign to help get him back on his feet.

My good buddy composer Richard Gibbs also lost his house of 21 years in the Woolsey Fire. The great news is that his totally unique Woodshed studio was spared thanks to his wife Linda’s miraculous garden. There’s no funding campaign for them, but please keep Rich and Linda in your prayers.

Charlie Pollard, owner of Dragonfly Creek Recording Studios, also lost his house in the fire, but, like Richard, his studio escaped. I’ve not heard of a fund for him yet, but again, keep Charlie in your thoughts.

Just because these people live in or near Malibu (except for Wayne Charvel), don’t assume that they have plenty of money to see them through these hard times. When you’re left with nothing but memories it’s extremely difficult to get back on your feet regardless of where you live. None of the above are wealthy celebrities able to easily absorb such a major body blow.

Please be generous and give what you can to help a fellow musician.

Those who wish to make cash donations to support Red Cross relief efforts for victims of the fire can do so on the Red Cross website or over the phone by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS. You can also text CAWILDFIRES to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

And if you’re in the Los Angeles area on December 1st and like the music of the Jerry Garcia and The Allman Brothers, you might want to attend this an upcoming benefit concert. It benefits all of those who are homeless from the fires.

I don’t want to be a bummer on a holiday, but there are people that really need our help.

Happy Thanksgiving!