Styx and REO Speedwagon Staging Benefit for Tornado Victims
Midwestern rockers Styx and REO Speedwagon will stage a benefit concert to aid central Illinois families impacted by the recent tornadoes and high winds that hit the area. The event, scheduled for Dec. 4 at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum in Bloomington, has been titled Rock to the Rescue.
"I believe that we need to take care of our own," REO Speedwagon frontman and Illinois native Kevin Cronin said in a statement. "The people of Illinois are our own, and we are theirs." As many as 16 people were killed on Nov. 17, when more than half-dozen twisters ripped through the area. Washington, near Peoria, saw as many as 500 homes damaged.
Additional special guest stars for the Bloomington benefit will be announced in the coming days. The bands, crew, local staff and many vendors have agreed to donate their time in order to maximize proceeds. Ticket prices will range from $28 to $58. They're also taking direct donations if you can't make it to the show. Funds will be earmarked specifically for affected communities in central Illinois.
"The good people of Illinois lent support and a helping hand to every artist on this bill at different times in their respective careers, and we owe a tremendous debt," said guitarist James "JY" Young, who co-founded the Chicago-based Styx, in a statement. "It’s our turn to ask what we can do for this great state, and the best way we know to help those in need is to get on stage and let the incredible healing power of music play its part in rebuilding Illinois."
Styx and REO have toured together recently, along with Ted Nugent, as part of the Midwest Rock 'n' Roll Express. You can find more ticket info for Rock to the Rescue here.