A Concert for Danny

I lost count, years ago, of how many live acts I've seen perform in my life. It's a number that, quite realistically, is in the four figures. I've seen legends (Springsteen, Dylan, the Godfather) and bands barely out of the garage. I've seen historic sets (Nirvana at the Reading Festival in 1993) and sets better forgotten.

But I've never seen anything quite as powerful, as transcendent, as the event that took place in the cramped back room of the 209 Music Lounge last night.

Certain the caliber of talent was part of the reason. Anytime you get the sort of talent James Brown surrounded himself with, including the famously funky JB horn players Maceo Parker and Fred Wesley, in front of an audience you are going to get something special. But the mood and music last night was powered by something more, something harder to describe but easier to identify.

At one point, Mr. Parker stepped up to the microphone and, addressing a crowd that in all honesty wasn't really listening, reminded us all that the greatest gift we can give is love. While the concert was arranged as a benefit for Danny Ray, James Brown's financially beleaguered "cape man", it really was more a tribute to the iconic figure that, in standing by his employers side for nearly 50 years, had become an essential piece of the Godfather mythology. Clearly beloved and important to the men and women who regularly took to the road with Mr. Brown, Danny Ray was feted and fawned over and reminded, time and time again, that he was indeed loved.

Of course, the good news is that in addition to the love offered up, there was also some money raised. Everyone in attendance put up at least $20 for the privledge of hearing a rare gathering of musicians giving it up and cutting it loose for Mr. Ray. The gift they received in return was worth so much more. Vobrant, emotional, touching and, of course, unspeakably funky, it's a set that I, for one, will be talking about for years.

Hopefully, the Danny Ray bankroll will grow. An account has been set up in trust for Mr. Ray by long time Brown (and Danny Ray) associate Frank Christian. Parties interested in offering up a little love and money can donate through the Danny Ray account at First Bank.