Look To The Stars News: John Mayer

Win A Guitar Signed By Maroon 5 By Signing Up For Green News

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Reverb – a charity that provides turn-key greening programs for artists’ tours while conducting grassroots outreach and education with music fans – wants to keep you up to date on what it’s doing to green the Maroon 5 tour as well as many other tours like Dave Matthews Band, John Mayer, The Fray and more!

All you have to do is sign up on the organization’s website. And as an added bonus, you’ll be added to the draw to win a guitar signed by Maroon 5.

Reverb has also launched an initiative that allows you to check out the Climate Counts Scorecard ranking your favorite companies on their climate action. Use the Climate Counts pocket guide to support the high scorers when you shop and send e-mails to the low scorers urging them to take climate change seriously. Click here to take action now.

To find out more about Reverb, click here.

Bette Midler Launches Charity Auction

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Bette Midler has launched a new online charity auction, and she wants YOU to be part of it.

“It’s just brimming with fabulous experiences donated by dear friends who share my deep concern about the environment!” she said. “With a tennis lesson with [”John McEnroe":http://www.looktothestars.org/celebrity/1182-john-mcenroe], a walk-on role with Steve Carell & Paul Rudd, lunch with Jann Wenner, a getaway to Richard Branson’s Necker Island, the chance to meet Cher, John Mayer, Tim McGraw – not to mention yours truly – we’ve got something for everyone!

“Proceeds benefit [”New York Restoration Project":http://www.looktothestars.org/charity/864-new-york-restoration-project] (NYRP), a nonprofit I founded to clean & green New York City. We’ve turned 55 vacant lots into beautiful community gardens and planted more than 250,000 trees, and we’re just getting started, so I hope you’ll join in the merriment by placing a bid today!"

There are also once-in-a-lifetime opportunities featuring Daniel Craig, John Stamos, Melissa Etheridge, Carlos Santana, Jackson Browne, Jay Leno and many more.

The auction runs until November 13 and can be accessed here.

More Performers Announced For Keep A Child Alive Black Ball

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Regina Walton

Back in July, Look to the Stars brought you a story about this year’s scheduled 6th Annual Keep A Child Alive Black Ball. As the official website promised, more artists have been announced.  

One of the new honorees is Youssou N’Dour. N’Dour is a legendary Senegalese musician and he’s been consistently active in promoting the health and well-being of those in Africa. N’Dour is also scheduled to perform at The Black Ball. To add to the excitement building over this event, two more performers are on the event list: Chris Martin and John Mayer.  

In addition, Queen Latifah is the event’s emcee. Alicia Keys is event host and musical director, and Iman and Padma Lakshmi are the event’s co-hosts. The other two honorees are former President Bill Clinton and Sir Richard Branson.  

With only a few more days before the event, we’re pretty excited to see who else might attend and perform.

  For more information about Keep A Child Alive and The 2009 Black Ball, please click here

John Mayer Trio To Play Gigs For Military Non-Profits

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Regina Walton

John Mayer fans take note! The Grammy Award winning musician is planning a concert fundraiser with his group the John Mayer Trio.

When it comes to the JM3, John isn’t the only big name. The other two members are bass player Pino Palladino – who has been a member of The Who and played for Paul Simon – and drummer and music producer Steve Jordan, who has played with such greats as Stevie Wonder and Bruce Springsteen.

The event will happen in Las Vegas on New Year’s Eve at the Hard Rock Cafe. The tickets will be sold online on the Consider It Dan website. The event has four ticket packages which range from a VIP meet and greet with John Mayer to early VIP entrance to the show. Tickets will be offered first to fans on John Mayer’s fan mailing list on Monday, September 21st at 10am, PDT, local Las Vegas time. You need a password for access! Tickets will be available to the general public on Saturday, September 26th at noon, PDT, local Las Vegas time.

If you’re not able to attend the New Years Eve event, John Mayer will have another concert in San Diego on December 29th at the Copley Symphony Hall. This is being presented as a spin on John’s Annual Holiday Review. Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Saturday, September 26th at noon, PDT, local Las Vegas time.

Musician Mayer Hawthorne will be the support music for both shows.

These two concert events will benefit two veteran’s charities: Military Outreach Ministry Camp Pendleton (MOM) and NCIRE – the Veterans Health Research Institute. These two non-profits seek to help members of the military, their families and veterans. The MOM is a nonprofit organization that exists to support young military families of all faiths. NCIRE is a self-funded private nonprofit research institute, established in 1988 to administer health research at the San Francisco VA Medical Center. They are the largest of the 85 nonprofit research institutes associated with the Department of Veterans Affairs nationwide.

Band From TV To Launch New Epilepsy Site At Charity Gig

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Band From TV – the celebrity charity music group made up of stars from some of today’s most popular TV shows – is to play a special gig next month to launch a charity website set up by its founding member.

Talk About It was created by Heroes star Greg Grunberg to raise awareness of epilepsy and help educate people the world and end stigmas about seizure disorders. The site features many of his Heroes co-stars and celebrity friends, such as Zachary Quinto, Chris Pine, and John Mayer. Grunberg is a longtime supporter of epilepsy causes, an issue that he has been involved with since his son, Jake, was diagnosed with the condition. He is the official spokesperson for the Epilepsy Foundation and Epilepsy Advocate.

Grunberg started the Band From TV – which includes members such as Hugh Laurie, Teri Hatcher, Bonnie Somerville, Hayden Panettiere, Adrian Pasdar, James Denton, Jesse Spencer, and Bob Guiney – after getting a few celebrities to play together at the House Of Blues for charity. The success of that event has led to a number of gigs in the US which have, according to Hugh Laurie, “raised a gargantuan sum of money for charity.” These charities include such as Save the Children, The Art of Elysium, the Child Abuse Prevention Program and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence through the Band From TV Global Charity Trust. Band From TV recently released their first CD, Hoggin’ All The Covers, which has become a huge hit at Amazon.com and can be ordered here. Look To The Stars was lucky enough to interview Greg just before Christmas, and the video of our chat can be viewed here.

To celebrate the launch of Talk About It, Band From TV – along with special celebrity guests including Scott Grimes from ER and many others – are performing one night only on October 25 at The Canyon Club in Agoura. Come with your family and friends and be ready to rock out to your favorite cover tunes being performed by some of your favorite TV actors.

THIS SHOW WILL SELL OUT!! Tickets may be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster or by calling The Canyon Club Box Office at (818) 879-5016.

Jay-Z Answers The Call For Charity

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Hip Hop megastar Jay-Z played a tribute concert in New York on Friday night to mark the deaths of those that lost their lives in the 9/11 terrorist attacks eight years ago.

The Answer The Call show, which launched his new album Blueprint 3, raised money for the New York Police & Fire Widows’ & Children’s Benefit Fund, a charity fund that has distributed over $96 million to the families of firefighters and police officers killed in the line of duty since 1986.

The rapper was joined by stars such as Kanye West, Pharell Williams, P. Diddy, John Mayer, Beyoncé Knowles, Mary J. Blige, Rihanna, Kid Cudi and Santigold for a two hour show that covered hits from his 11 album career.

“Make some noise for everybody that lost their lives so we can live ours,” the rapper told the crowd. “We stand here tonight eight years later even stronger, even stronger.”

He also held a minute of silence to honor those who lost their lives in the attack.

John Mayer’s Twitter Challenge Aids Dogs

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 11:26:00 -0000

Written by Emily Ray

John Mayer’s latest challenge with the showbiz website TMZ proved fruitful for two animal charities.

The musician promised to pay £25,000 to a charity of TMZ boss Harvey Levin’s choice if he could uncover a mug shot of Mayer from his 2001 arrest in Atlanta for speeding and driving without a license.

Never one to shy away from a challenge, Levin accepted and was triumphant! The money will be split between two animal charities: Pet Orphans Fund and Ace of Hearts, charities which focus on rescuing, training and re-homing dogs.

Mayor congratulated the website via Twitter: “Well done, TMZ. But the real winners today are the puppies.”

Sheryl Crow To Headline Tiger Woods Charity Party

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Singer Sheryl Crow is to headline this year’s Bloc Party for the Tiger Woods Foundation.

The Block Party is an exclusive event organized to express gratitude to the Orange County community for its support of the Tiger Woods Learning Center and its students. Through intimate musical performances and exciting live and silent auctions, the Block Party has raised more than $4 million for the TWLC since its inception in 2005. The 2008 Block Party raised approximately $700,000 for the TWLC, a 14-acre youth-education facility located in Anaheim, Calif.

Past musical guests include Seal, Melissa Etheridge, Grammy Award winner John Mayer, and Glenn Frey and Joe Walsh of the legendary Eagles. Block Party auctions have featured exceptional sports and entertainment experiences, including putting lessons with Tiger Woods, one-of-a-kind memorabilia, and VIP trips to the world’s best sporting events and entertainment destinations.

The event will take place on October 17, and more information will be made available here.

Go Back To School With Celebrity Items

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The Grammy Foundation and MusiCares want you to rock in the new school year by taking part in a new charity auction that features unique memorabilia and VIP experiences that benefit their high school music programs.

Decorate your room with original artwork and photos from Taylor Swift and Paris Hilton, signed postcards from Kanye West and Stevie Wonder, and play on guitars signed by Depeche Mode, John Mayer, Tom Petty and Sheryl Crow.

The auction also gives you the chance to extend your wardrobe with hoodies signed by the Jonas Brothers and a T shirt signed by Iggy Pop. There are also items and experiences from Coldplay, Maroon 5, Joe Satriani, the Dave Matthews Band, Slash, Alice Cooper, Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Hudson, Neil Diamond, 3 Doors Down, John Legend, Jason Mraz, U2, Melissa Etheridge, Green Day and many more.

The GRAMMY Foundation cultivates the understanding, appreciation and advancement of the impact of music on American culture through music education programs, scholarships and grants, and MusiCares provides a safety net of critical financial assistance and services for music people in times of need.

The auction runs until July 31 and can be accessed here.

Celebrity Charity Auction Raises Funds For Museum

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

A new charity auction is giving you the chance to bid on once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and items to raise money for a state-of-the-art museum in New York City designed to highlight the achievements of songwriting greats and acknowledge their rightful place in culture.

Going under the hammer are opportunities to have lunch with Smashing Pumpkins front man Billy Corgan, backstage meet-and-greets with Cher, Jason Mraz, Wynonna, Chris Daughtry, Clint Black and Bonnie Raitt, as well as guitars signed by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora and Peter Wentz, handwritten lyrics signed by Paul Simon, Rob Thomas and Carley Simon, and other items signed by Elvis Costello, Julianne Hough, Neil Diamond, Kenny Rogers, John Mayer, and much more.

The new museum facility will serve as a resource and center of study for scholars, aspiring songwriters, students and music lovers young and old to learn about America’s musical heritage.

To view the auction, click here.

Buy Guitar String Bracelets And Support Charity

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Music fans now have the chance to wear their love of Rock on their sleeves for charity.

Wear Your Music is a New York-based organization that creates 100% eco-friendly jewelry that rocks – literally. The company makes used guitar strings from artists spanning the musical spectrum into stylish bracelets. 100% of the proceeds from the bracelets goes to charities of the artists’ choice, such as UNICEF, Rock the Vote, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Nordoff-Robbins, MusiCares, PETA, HeadCount, The Nature Conservancy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Keep A Child Alive, the Michael J. Fox Foundation, Smile Train and many more.

Over 150 musicians have personally donated guitar strings to the initiative, including Eric Clapton, Pete Townshend, Metallica, Jack Johnson, John Mayer, Ben Harper, Avril Lavigne, Carrie Underwood, Carlos Santana and Death Cab for Cutie.

“These are strings that these musicians have used and would normally throw away,” says co-president and designer Hannah Garrison, “It’s great that we can recycle them and also offer people a chance to wear rock n roll on their wrists.” In addition, the fine silver used on each bracelet is also 100% recycled, as is the DVD case each bracelet comes in. “Supporting good causes and the environment have always been important, but even more so now.”

To check out the bracelets and make a purchase, visit the official Wear Your Music website.

Stars Duet With Cuban Musicians For Climate Change

Tue, 26 May 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Amy Winehouse, The Killers and The Rolling Stones have teamed up with a group of Cuban musicians on an album designed to fight climate change.

The artists will perform duets with Rhythms Del Mundo on the CD, titled Classics, with proceeds from the project going to fund climate change projects and natural disaster relief around the world.

Inspired by the 2004 Asian Tsunami, the album will contain musical gems such as The Killers singing The Eagles’ Hotel California, and The Rolling Stones taking on The Drifters’ Under the Boardwalk. Also included on the album will be Amy Winehouse’s take on Sam Cooke’s Cupid. But perhaps the real highlight will be Fall Out Boy and John Mayer teaming up to cover Michael Jackson’s Beat It.

The album will follow the first Rhythms Del Mundo album which was released in 2006 and featured an all-star cast of Cuban musicians including Ibrahim Ferrer and Omara Portuondo of the Buena Vista Social Club and international artists such as the Arctic Monkeys, Dido, U2, Coldplay, Sting, Jack Johnson, Maroon 5, Franz Ferdinand, and Kaiser Chiefs. Proceeds from the CD went to environmental nonprofit organization Artists Project Earth.

The new CD is due for release in July.

John Mayer To Duet With Jordin Sparks For Charity

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Grammy winner John Mayer & platinum artist Jordin Sparks will duet on March 26, 2009, when Carnival Cruise Lines and Mayercraft Carrier 2 present One Splendid Evening, a special concert event to benefit the VH1 Save The Music Foundation.

Proceeds will help restore instrumental music education in America’s public schools and raise awareness about the importance of music as part of a child’s complete education.

One Splendid Evening will be held on board the new Carnival Splendor, Carnival’s largest and most innovative ship, while the vessel is docked at the Port of San Pedro in Los Angeles. The evening will include performances by Gavin Rossdale, Sara Bareilles, Erin McCarley, O.A.R., Guster and DJ Logic, as well as a meet and greet with all the artists. Guests will enjoy dinner, an open bar and additional live entertainment throughout the ship. The next day, the ship sets sail on a special four-day music cruise – the “Mayercraft Carrier 2: Even Crafter” voyage.

One Splendid Evening will give guests an opportunity to explore the $640 million Carnival Splendor, the largest “Fun Ship” ever based year-round in Southern California. The ship can accommodate more than 3,000 passengers and features a luxurious 21,000-square-foot spa, four swimming pools, a 270-square-foot outdoor movie screen and 22 bars and lounges.

Atlanta-based Sixthman will produce both the dockside One Splendid Evening and the fully chartered Mayercraft Carrier 2: Even Craftier. The second annual music cruise, hosted by John Mayer, will sail March 27-31, 2009 from Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. While onboard, music fans will enjoy concert performances by John Mayer, O.A.R., Guster and over a dozen other bands for a music festival at sea. For more information, visit www.mayercraftcarrier.com.

Ticket prices range from $150 to $1,000. The One Splendid Evening website is now live (www.onesplendidevening.com), please visit for more information or to purchase tickets.

Giorgio Armani Donates To New York Schools

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Wendy Williams

Fashion designer Giorgio Armani donated $1 million to New York City public schools this week. The money will fund the Armani Arts Institute, supporting art education in the city’s disadvantaged neighborhoods.

The donation is a new initiative under the Fund for Public Schools, an organization that has raised more than $240 million since 2003. Armani’s gift is the single largest retail donation to the fund.

Armani announced the gift during the opening of his new flagship Armani/5th Avenue store, coinciding with New York City’s Fashion Week. Speaking in Italian, he described his donation as “an investment in the future generations of New York City. . . we are giving young kids a chance to dream.”

Caroline Kennedy, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and Joel I. Klein, Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education, lauded Armani’s investment in the city during challenging economic times. The fashion designer said, “An entrepreneur shows his true colors in a period of crisis, not in a period when everybody is having success.” Kennedy, vice-chair of the Fund, commented that Armani’s gift was one of the “largest personal donations” to the fund.

Armani and Kennedy traveled to the Bronx visit one of the recipient schools.

Armani explained that because of the economic climate, he toned down the opening of his store, substituting the school donation in place of a fashion show or dinner. But his new 43,000-square-feet glass-cube emporium is hardly drab. Four stories of luxury Armani items, from shoes to chocolate, are connected by a curved staircase lined in white plastic.

Everybody in NYC at Store Opening

During the opening party, editors for top fashion magazines such as Vogue, Town& Country, InStyle Group and Elle jockeyed to get a word with the 74-year-old fashion billionaire. As described by Joanna Coles, editor of Marie Claire, “Clearly, everyone in New York is here.”

Customers of Mr. Armani also turned out for the event, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Alicia Keys, Ricky Martin, Liam Neeson, Josh Hartnett, Solange Knowles, Chase Crawford, John Mayer and Natalia Vodianova.

Victoria Beckham, a sometimes model for Armani underwear, was in town for NYC’s Fashion Week to introduce her Victoria Beckham Dress Collection. About her former boss she said, “I have so much respect for Mr. Armani—you know, I can dream.”

Grammy Charity Auction Set To Rock

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

With the Grammy Awards only days away, now is the time to bid on exclusive celebrity items in the annual Grammy Awards Charity Auction and help a good cause.

Going under the hammer this year are VIP experiences with Katy Perry and Kathy Griffin, guitars signed by AC/DC, Taylor Swift, John Mayer, Fall Out Boy and the Jonas Brothers, books signed by Mariah Carey, Slash, and Céline Dion, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the set of a Rihanna music video or photo shoot.

Also on offer are DVDs signed by Flight of the Conchords, drums signed by the Foo Fighters, and memorabilia signed by Sheryl Crow, Katherine McPhee, Jesse McCartney, Tom Jones, Christina Aguilera, Robert Plant, and Sarah McLachlan.

And for the person who thinks they have everything, the auction also offers the opportunity to receive a personal phone call from Aretha Franklin, who will share her favorite recipes with you!

The auction will benefit MusiCares – which works to help those in need in the music industry – and the Grammy Foundation, which works with industries, cultural communities and the public to raise awareness of music and arts education. It runs until February 19 and can be accessed here.

Neil Diamond Donates Money To Hurricane Ike Victims

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Neil Diamond has donated the profits from merchandising sales on his recent tour to the victims of Hurricane Ike.

The singer – who is to be honored as MusiCares Person of the Year in February – initially agreed to donate his merchandising sales from his shows last October to victims of the disaster, but has now turned over proceeds from every show he has played since then.

“Hurricane Ike hit southern Texas so fiercely and has been forgotten about by the rest of the country – but these people are still in desperate straits, and are in dire need of our help,” he told CNN. “I saw what was going on. The mayor of Houston took me around, and he told me about it and introduced me to some people. The next day, I drove down to some of the hardest-hit areas, and I just felt that I had to do something, and I felt that maybe my audience would help me out with it.”

The singer will be joined by performers such as Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, the Foo Fighters, Coldplay, Jennifer Hudson, John Mayer, and Josh Groban at a charity show on February 6 at the Los Angeles’ Convention Centre to benefit MusiCares, an organization that provides a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need by supplying services and resources that cover a wide range of financial, medical and personal emergencies. The evening will also feature a fantastic silent auction.

Tickets for the event are available here.

John Mayer To Appear On Sesame Street Special

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

John Mayer is set to join Elmo, Big Bird and the rest of the Sesame Street gang in a TV special raising children’s awareness of the struggles of military families.

“Coming Home: Military Families Cope with Change” will air on PBS on April 1, and tells the stories of U.S. service members who return home with injuries — visible and invisible — and explores the struggles their families face. Produced by Sesame Workshop and David Letterman’s production company Worldwide Pants Inc, the show will also feature other famous faces such as Queen Latifah.

“As America’s public broadcaster, PBS is proud to bring resources and tools to families that help them navigate their way through life,” John F. Wilson, chief TV programming executive for PBS, said in a statement. “These stories of courage and strength from military moms and dads will not only help reach and support families facing similar challenges, but also illustrate to all Americans the extraordinary sacrifices these military families make every day.”

Sesame Workshop has spent the past two years creating outreach materials to help military families with young children cope with deployments, homecomings and changes. In 2007, they produced a PBS another primetime special with Cuba Gooding Jr.. When Parents Are Deployed went on to earn an Emmy nomination.

“The men and women of our military have made indescribable sacrifices,” said David Letterman. “The very least we can do is tell their stories, and to honor the bravery and strength of both the soldiers and their families.”

The Grateful Dead Sign Guitar For Charity Auction

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Deadheads – otherwise known as fans of The Grateful Dead – will want to get their hands on a signed guitar up for auction at the moment.

The reunited remaining members of the band – now known simply as The Dead – have signed the guitar to benefit HeadCount, an organization that encourages young people to vote. Established in 2004 by a group of artists, music industry professionals and fans – all determined to make sure the live music community is well-represented at the polls – the organization has registered over 200,000 new voters. Over 12,000 of these were registered at concerts performed by the Dave Matthews Band in 2004. The organization currently fields street teams in nearly 50 cities, and has ties to a diverse group of artists including Pearl Jam, Jack Johnson, John Mayer, Nine Inch Nails, My Morning Jacket, Maroon 5, Wilco, Death Cab for Cutie, The Indigo Girls, Gov’t Mule and the Disco Biscuits.

Joining The Dead – Phil Lesh, Bob Weir, Warren Haynes, and Mickey Hart – in signing the guitar are Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, President Barack Obama’s transition team Co-Chair (and former White House Chief of Staff) John Podesta, and FCC Commissioner Jonathan Adlestein.

The auction runs until February 11 and can be accessed here.

One Splendid Evening With John Mayer

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Join John Mayer for One Splendid Evening at a charity event aboard a cruise ship in March.

On March 26th, VH1’s Save The Music Foundation will join forces with Carnival Cruise Lines & Mayercraft Carrier 2 to take over the Carnival Splendor prior to its inaugural cruise as “Mayercraft Carrier 2: Even Craftier!” for “One Splendid Evening” to benefit the Foundation.

For one night only, enjoy an evening of entertainment in the Splendor’s new home at the Port of San Pedro, CA. The Splendor is Carnival’s newest and biggest ship, boasting 4 pools, the “Red Carpet” dance club, a luxurious spa, full-service casino, 24-hour room service, 22 lounges and bars, and so much more. The evening will include open bar and food courtesy of Carnival Cruise Lines as well as live performances by John Mayer and some of his friends (more to be announced soon).

The event will take place on the eve of a special four-day cruise that will include Mayer as the main entertainment.

The Save The Music Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of education in America’s public schools by restoring music programs in cities across the country, and raising public awareness about the importance of music participation for our nation’s youth.

More information about the event can be found here.

Coldplay And Foo Fighters Join Neil Diamond For Charity Gig

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 16:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Neil Diamond has announced plans for a star-studded charity concert to be held next month.

The veteran singer – who was named the 2009 MusiCares Person of the Year – will be joined by performers such as Tim McGraw, the Foo Fighters, Coldplay, Jennifer Hudson, John Mayer, Josh Groban, Adele and Raul Malo for the gig on February 6 at the Los Angeles’ Convention Centre.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the MusiCares program, which provides a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need by supplying services and resources that cover a wide range of financial, medical and personal emergencies. The evening will also feature a fantastic silent auction.

Diamond is being honored by the charity for his charity work, which includes donating 100 percent of merchandise sales from his October concerts in Houston, Dallas and Oklahoma City to the hurricane relief efforts in Texas for areas ravaged by Hurricane Ike.

Tickets for the event are available here.

John Mayer Makes Sick Kids Happy

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

John Mayer headlined a special concert for sick kids at a children’s hospital in New York yesterday.

The 31-year-old performed for patients, staff, and parents at the 17th annual Blythedale Children’s Hospital Holiday Concert. Along with Rob Thomas – lead singer from Matchbox 20 – Ingrid Michaelson and Sara Bareilles, Mayer performed holiday hits and a few of his own songs.

The show was hosted by 95.5 WPLJ-FM’s Scott Shannon and Todd Pettengill, who broadcast live from Blythedale starting at 6am – which meant the performers had a very early morning. The duo’s “Scott & Todd in the Morning” show has raised more than $3 million for the children’s rehabilitation hospital, and the annual concert raises over $250,000 every year.

“Everybody loves getting up early for this,” said Connie Cornell, Blythedale’s director of public relations. “It’s our largest fundraiser of the year but, first and foremost, it’s a celebration for the kids and their families, and for the people who support the hospital.”

About 400 people attended the concert.

Project Angel Food Hosts Celebrity Shopping Spree

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 13:30:00 -0000

With the Holidays around the corner, Project Angel Food kicked off their annual DIVINE DESIGN on Thursday December 4th, celebrating style and philanthropy with a big dose of holiday shopping.

David Arquette, Eric McCormack, and Elton John’s partner David Furnish were some of the stars who helped out during the weeklong event, in which top designers sold fashion, furniture, beauty and gift items, with proceeds going to provide meals for victims of HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. For every $5 spent at Divine Design, Project Angel Food can cook and deliver a meal to someone facing HIV/AIDS, cancer and other debilitating illnesses.

Divine Design kicked off in the heart of Beverly Hills with a special gala evening held at the Beverly Hilton, featuring a runway show presented by Divine Designer honoree, Tadashi Shoji, and an awards presentation. Honors were also given to Man of Style, David Furnish and Woman of Style, Jada Pinkett Smith.

Over 500 celebrities, designers and supporters of Project Angel Food attended the opening night which also included a live fantasy auction and an exclusive night of VIP shopping. Following the awards ceremony, the gala attendees returned to shopping in the marketplace at 9900 Wilshire Boulevard (formerly Robinson’s May building and generously donated by Candy & Candy), where cash registers rang in the holiday shopping season all in the name of love. The Divine Design marketplace opened to the public on Friday December 5th at 11am.

Opening night attendees enjoyed NUVO Cosmopolitans and listened to jazz and blues by KJAZZ.This year’s gala night also featured one-of-a- kind Live Auction items to bid on including a unique BARBIE Holiday Tree donated by Mattel and created by the lead designer for Barbie; a New York Fashion Week package which includes first class airfare for two on American Airlines, front row tickets to the Tadashi Shoji Show at New York Fashion Week in Bryant Park and a dress made especially for you by Tadashi Shoji himself; sponsor a day of meals for Project Angel Food clients. These fantastic auction items and others were auctioned off by the vivacious auctioneer, Ed Beardsley of Bonhams & Butterfields and the beautiful actress and Project Angel Food supporter, Lisa Rinna.

One of the companies that donated items to the event was luxury bag designers Trina, who provided over $20,000 worth of products to the event. For anyone who wasn’t able to make it to the shopping event last week, Trina are currently auctioning off some celebrity-sign bags online, with all proceeds to go to Project Angel Food.

Visit eBay to bid on bags autographed by John Mayer, Adam Sandler, Ryan Seacrest, Neil Patrick Harris, and the casts of Ugly Betty and Lost.

Divine Design was born 16 years ago in response to the devastation the design community was experiencing from HIV/AIDS. Since its inception Divine Design has raised more than $13 million to help fund Project Angel Food’s meal-delivery program throughout Los Angeles County. Founded in 1989, Project Angel Food provides life-sustaining meals and nutritional counseling each day to more than 1,400 men, women and children disabled by HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Thanks to a devoted core of 1,500 volunteers, meals are cooked and delivered daily to people’s homes throughout Los Angeles County.

(Photos copyright Alex J. Berliner)

It's Business Time For The Flight Of The Conchords

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Grammy award-winning comedy duo Flight of the Conchords are part of a huge new auction being run to raise cash for charity.

The Conchords shot to fame in 2007 when their quirky television series debuted on HBO and immediately received ratings and critical acclaim. Originally from New Zealand, the duo uses a mix of music and comedy to make witty and deadpan observations on society. Their new series starts next month.

Now – as part of the annual Grammy Charities Auction – you have the chance to bid on an acoustic guitar, DVD and CD signed by “New Zealand’s fourth most popular guitar-based digi-bongo acapella-rap-funk-comedy folk duo.”

The auction is raising money for MusiCares – which works to help those in need in the music industry – and the Grammy Foundation, which works with industries, cultural communities and the public to raise awareness of music and arts education.

Also up for auction are guitars signed by the Jonas Brothers, Slash, Sheryl Crow, Melissa Etheridge, Bonnie Raitt, and John Mayer. But if you don’t know one end of a guitar from another, don’t worry – there are plenty of other great items, such as signed posters from the Dixie Chicks and Robert Plant, clothes from Ricky Martin and Carrie Underwood, and the chance to have lunch with John Stamos or meet Donny and Marie Osmond.

But wait – there’s more!

Maybe you would be interested in handwritten lyrics from Annie Lennox, a sketch by Anthony Kiedis and Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, or a photo signed by Good Charlotte. There are also a stack of CDs and other items signed by Steven Tyler, Rascal Flatts, Richie Sambora, Avril Lavigne, and many others.

The auction is live right now on eBay and ends on December 11.

Be A Rock Star For A Day With New Charity Auction

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 11:30:00 -0000

Do you dream about rock ‘n’ roll stardom? How about playing the guitar of your favorite rock icons? Guitar Center Music Foundation is proud to present the Rockstar Experience Online Charity Auction at www.auctionwire.com and running until Saturday, December 13. The auction will feature hot ticket items such as signed guitars from famous musicians, celebrity meet and greets with rock legends, and The Rockstar Experience — a unique package that will make anyone rock ‘n’ roll!

The Rockstar Experience package will be one lucky winner’s shot at fame; the winner of this item will be featured on a huge “Poster of Fame,” photographed by world-renowned rock photographer Robert Knight. The 80-square-foot poster will be displayed prominently at the entrance of the landmark Guitar Center Hollywood store on Sunset Boulevard alongside famous artists such as John Mayer and Slash.

There is more. The lucky winner will get real publicity for being featured on this Guitar Center storefront. The Rockstar Experience winner will be featured in a story in an upcoming issue of Skinnie Entertainment Magazine (www.SkinnieMagazine.com) – a leading free publication for music, sports, fashion and lifestyle, reaching the young adults of Southern California and Las Vegas for over seven years. Top this off with an appearance of the winner in the popular Flash section of SPIN – the leading music lifestyle magazine with the popular online site www.SPIN.com – and you have the ultimate rock star exposure package.

In addition, the winning bidder will receive a day in a top Los Angeles recording studio with the assistance of a top engineer and production team, a component that, alone, is valued at thousands of dollars. Bennett Music/Sanctum LA is offering one full lockout day of studio time with esteemed head engineer Gary Lux. Gary’s credits include mixing for Usher, Janet Jackson, Rob Thomas, and Ben Harper, among others. Sanctum LA will offer production services as well by the in-house production team of Leo Mellace and Steve Catizone, whose credits include Wyclef Jean, JoJo, Earth Wind & Fire, Ludacris, Damian Marley, Fuel, and Sully Erna of Godsmack, among others. Bennett Group’s men’s lifestyle and entertainment network, MEN7 (www.MEN7.tv), is a proud sponsor of this charity auction.

The winning bidder will also receive a signed copy of Robert Knights’ new book “Rock Gods: Forty Years of Rock Photography.” Robert Knight is best known for his “Guitar Legend” archive, having worked with such artists as Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, Led Zeppelin, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, as well as such contemporary artists as John Mayer, Tom Morello, and John-5.

The highly anticipated auction also includes rare memorabilia and once-in-a-lifetime experiences with rock legends. Items included are a John Mayer Signature Stratocaster autographed by John Mayer himself; a guitar signed by Velvet Revolver band members Slash, Duff McKagan, Dave Kushner, Matt Sorum and Scott Weiland; and a Zildjian gong signed by the Zildjian artists present at the 2006 Winter NAMM show, including Matt Cameron (Soundgarden and Pearl Jam), Mick Fleetwood, The Goo Goo Dolls, Eric Singer from KISS, Stephen Perkins from Jane’s Addiction and Porno for Pyros, Atom Willard from Angels & Airwaves, and many more.

The celebrity experiences include a one-on-one drum lesson and/or meet and greet with Danny Seraphine, one of the most highly respected rock drummers, rated by the legendary Buddy Rich as one of his favorite young drummers. He was the drummer, percussionist and a founding member of the multi-million selling, Grammy award winning band Chicago. Also offered is a guitar lesson and/or meet and greet at with Don Felder, the lead guitarist of the Eagles from 1974 until their breakup in 1980, then from their reunion in 1994 to his firing in 2001. In addition this auction is offering a choice of a meet and greet or a personal one-on-one drum lesson with Alan White, a member of Yes since 1972, who has also performed with a variety of artists, including a recent set alongside Keith Emerson, Chris Squire, and Simon Kirke for the Ahmet Ertegun memorial show, as the opening act for Led Zeppelin. The winner will also have the opportunity to perform with White and a celebrity band in concert. The last package up for auction includes a limited edition, hand-painted Gibson Custom guitar inspired by the Jimi Hendrix Psychedelic Flying V Jimi purchased in 1967 and played during his Europe tour in 1967 and 1968. The guitar was signed by his sister, Janie Hendrix, and is serial number 001 of 300 of the limited edition. This item will be presented to the winning bidder by Janie Hendrix herself.

The Guitar Center Music Foundation is a public nonprofit organization created to provide funding and resources for music education programs across America so that kids and adults alike will have an opportunity to experience the joys of making music. Instruments and equipment are granted to programs throughout the year to school music programs, after-school music programs and music therapy programs. Visit www.guitarcentermusicfoundation.org to learn more.

Keep Your Feet Dry With Celebrity Designed Boots

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

As winter starts to wrap it’s icy fingers around the Northern Hemisphere, it’s time to start pulling your seasonal clothes out of the bottom of the drawers and closets. And if you want something a little different to go splashing through the puddles and snow this year, why not check out the celebrity boot sale currently on eBay.

Jay-Z, John Mayer, KT Tunstall, Amy Winehouse, Noel Gallagher, James Blunt, Katie Melua, The Arctic Monkeys, Kate Moss and a host of other stars decorated boots at this year’s Glastonbury Festival in the UK, and now the footwear will raise money for Water Aid, an organization that provides clean water, sanitation and hygiene education in Africa and other parts of the developing world.

“We are really excited about the Water Aid Celebrity Boot auction on eBay,” said Naomi Irving, corporate development manager at Water Aid. “We’re so grateful to all the celebrities involved who have signed a pair of Hunter for Water Aid wellies [boots], including KT Tunstall, The Fratellis and Noel Gallagher.”

The auction runs until November 20, and can be accessed through eBay.

KT Tunstall is also currently involved in a campaign to help ensure homelessness is eradicated in Scotland by 2012.

The “Hometime” campaign has been launched by Shelter Scotland to ensure homeless targets are met and asks people to name which song reminds them of home. The list of songs will then be handed over to politicians later this month.

More information about the campaign can be found at the Shelter Scotland website.

Andre Agassi Grand Slam For Kids This Weekend

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Rod Stewart, Sheryl Crow, The Killers and David Spade will headline the 13th annual Andre Agassi Grand Slam for Children benefit concert in Las Vegas this weekend.

“I’m thrilled to have so many amazing performers donate their talents to help us help children,” said Agassi. “We look forward to celebrating with our partners what we’ve accomplished in Las Vegas with the Andre Agassi College Preparatory Academy and our future efforts to transform public education for underserved children nationwide.”

The concert will raise funds for the Andre Agassi Charitable Foundation, which provides recreational and educational opportunities for at-risk boys and girls. The concert will be preceded by an invitation-only concert tonight – October 10 – featuring James Taylor and Five For Fighting’s John Ondrasik.

“This year the Grand Slam for Children is being held at Wynn Las Vegas, which offers a first-class, intimate experience for our guests,” said Agassi. “The event is sure to be a hit with top exclusive entertainment at this beautiful venue.”

Since its inception in 1995, the Grand Slam for Children has been distinguished by its roster of entertainers, including Barbra Streisand, Elton John, Billy Joel, Phil Collins, Jerry Seinfeld, Stevie Wonder, Ellen DeGeneres, Jamie Foxx, Robin Williams, Don Henley, Tony Bennett, Luther Vandross, Usher, Goo Goo Dolls, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Mary J. Blige, Kelly Clarkson, John Mayer, Ray Romano, Lionel Richie, Carlos Santana, Seal, Duran Duran and Josh Groban. More than 98,000 fans and VIP guests have attended the past 12 Grand Slam events, raising more than $70 million for charity.

Agassi’s 2008 Grand Slam for Children will take place tomorrow night, October 11, with musical direction by David Foster. More information about tickets can be found at the Andre Agassi Charitable Foundation website.

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