Big Star benefit concert, L.A. – Jody Stephens is the only surviving member of the cult rock band, Bug Star and last weekend he was joined by other celebrity indie musicians at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre.. This was in aid of a benefit for Autism Think Tank, an organisation that helps families and individuals affected by autism. The concert was staged by the Wild Honey Foundation.
All of Big Star’s greatest hits were played by stars such as; R.E.M.’s Mike Mills, Chris Stamey from The dB’s, Dan Wilson from Semisonic, the Bangles as well as many others.
Gary Stewart, who co-presented the concert with the Wild Honey Foundation told the Los Angeles Times:
“L.A. never had a chance to hear the original band play these hugely influential albums on tour, so this is the next best thing.”
A review in the Hollywood Reporter by Chris Willman told that to be able to watch Big Star perform was a real treat as they only usually perform every 20 years or so.
They played music from all of theor hit albums including the 1974 record Third/Sister Lovers. Willman further adds:
“The effect of having these albums played live back-to-back was a little like seeing the Raspberries open for the Velvet Underground. Which would be, you know, a dream double-bill, so… no complaints.”
Below is a video of all the artists performing, ‘Thank You, Friends’