East Coast Music Review staff photographer had the unique opportunity to direct the Love Rocks NYC livestream for Veeps while capturing exclusive behind-the-scenes photos during the soundcheck. This insider perspective enriches our coverage of the eighth annual Love Rocks NYC benefit concert at the Beacon Theatre in New York. With a lineup of renowned music and entertainment figures, the event was a spectacular showcase. Comedic powerhouses Conan O’Brien, Jim Gaffigan, Martin Short, Bill Murray, and Tracy Morgan presided over the evening, which featured performances from legends like Dave Grohl, Marcus King, Nile Rodgers, the Black Keys, and Tom Morello. Their blend of mesmerizing covers and hit originals supported the commendable mission of God’s Love We Deliver, an organization committed to providing meals for New Yorkers facing serious health challenges.
The concert opened with a memorable performance by Conan O’Brien and Jimmy Vivino, covering Elvis Presley’s “Suspicious Minds,” setting the tone for an evening of unforgettable music. Emily King, accompanied by AC Lincoln, took the stage next with a lively rendition of Stephen Stills’ “Love the One You’re With,” engaging the audience in a collective sing-along. David Ludwigson, President and CEO of God’s Love We Deliver, then took a moment to highlight the organization’s vital work and initiatives, paving the way for Bettye LaVette to captivate the audience with her renowned interpretation of Bob Dylan’s “Things Have Changed.”
Bill Murray later assumed the role of official emcee, introducing a series of outstanding performances, starting with Marcus King’s “Wildflowers and Wine” and followed by a powerful collaboration on “Proud Mary” with Bernie Williams. The evening continued with Quinn Sullivan’s rendition of “Dear Prudence” by The Beatles, leading into a performance by Larkin Poe, who mixed original music with classic covers in a memorable medley. Don Felder of The Eagles then showcased his legendary guitar skills on “Life In The Fast Lane” and “Hotel California.”
The night proceeded with Tracy Morgan’s vibrant introduction for Trombone Shorty, Ivan Neville, and Joss Stone, who delivered a funk-infused cover of Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy.” Lucius and Allison Russell, alongside Hozier, later joined forces for emotionally charged performances, including Russell’s “Requiem.”
Tom Morello’s set included a solo cover of Bruce Springsteen’s “The Ghost of Tom Joad,” followed by collaborative performances with various artists on classics like “This Land is Your Land” and “Teach Your Children.” The event also featured iconic songs performed by Joss Stone, Dave Grohl’s renditions of “Everlong” and “Live and Let Die,” and Nile Rodgers leading Sister Sledge’s “We Are Family” and Chic’s “Good Times.”
As the evening neared its conclusion, Hozier captivated the audience with “Take Me to Church” and “Francesca,” and The Black Keys energized the crowd with hits like “Howlin’ for You” and “Lonely Boy.” The concert culminated with a group performance of David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance,” symbolizing the unity and shared purpose of the event. The successful benefit underscored the music community’s commitment to supporting God’s Love We Deliver’s essential mission, making the evening not only a celebration of rock and roll but a beacon of hope and generosity.
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