Bands key to Lake Wylie Children’s Charity success

Lake Wylie Children’s Charity planners know, aside from raising money for children facing life-threatening illness, the biggest draw for the Oct. 4 event is the music.

There’s the silent auction, kids’ zone, Panthers fan zone, wine pull, water ball challenge, hair cut challenge, concessions. “Oh,” said organizer Jennifer Joye, “and bake sale!”

But the show couldn’t go on without the five bands known throughout the region offering their talents free for the cause. Performers include career musicians, a former church singer and an Army veteran.

“We were asked last year to do it and unfortunately, our lead singer – he sings all over the world – was booked that day,” said Bill Avery, guitarist with Lipstick on a Pig. “I’ve been chomping at the bit to do this event, because it’s so important to the kids.”

Lipstick combines classic rock from the ’60s and ’70s with original tunes. The Charlotte band formed in 2011 and opened earlier this year for Kansas. The band throws in alternative country performances, too. Like many bands, Lipstick makes hay Thursdays through Saturdays. The Sunday benefit date brings more than a big audience, Avery said.

“Seeing the children and seeing what the event does for communities, helping people that need the help, that’s really important for us,” he said.

Returning this year is Continental Divide, a band with more than 30 years playing beach music, jazz, rock and other favorites. The band adds horns and saxophones to its rhythm section for a high-energy experience. Saxophone player and vocalist Dennis Howren, a Fort Mill resident, said most of the band’s events are private. A large public performance gives them a better opportunity to react with fans.

“This is great feedback,” Howren said.

Howren said the Lake Wylie event is special, from the concert activities to the planning and use of donated money.

“They’ve taken the time to pick the right individuals,” he said.

This year’s recipients are the families of Kelsey Funderburk, 14, of Rock Hill and Jaxon Clark, 5, of Lake Wylie.

Stacy Hudson, lead vocalist for Cloud 9, agreed a large, involved crowd having a good time is great for the bands. But, like other performers, Hudson said it isn’t the most important part of the event.

“We’re helping children that actually need the help,” he said.

Cloud 9 puts original spins on cover songs from the past six decades. Performances include rock, dance and other styles. The band played the benefit two years ago.

“We had a great experience,” Hudson said. “I was amazed at how well they treat you. The production is top-notch.”

Other acts include Charlotte hard rock quartet Fiftywatt Freight Train and Lancaster country act, Shannon Warren.

This story was originally published September 28, 2015 at 2:19 PM with the headline "Bands key to Lake Wylie Children’s Charity success."