Next month’s Rock Beats Cancer benefit concert in Coquitlam will include a live auction of exclusive music memorabilia, headlined by a guitar donated by Loverboy’s Paul Dean. The guitar, autographed by rock icons Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, Michael Anthony, and Jason Bonham, is expected to be a major highlight of the event.
On Thursday, October 17, local rock musicians will come together at the Great Canadian Casino’s theatre to perform and honor the late drummer Rocket Norton (of Prism and The Seeds of Time). Norton, who passed away on April 5, had spearheaded these annual benefit concerts, helping raise $660,000 for the BC Cancer Foundation before his death.
This year’s rebranded Rock Beats Cancer concert will feature performances from notable bands and musicians including members of Loverboy (Mike Reno, Paul Dean), Chilliwack (Bill Henderson, Ab Bryant), Powder Blues Band (Tom Lavin), Lee Aaron Band (Lee Aaron, John Cody, Dave Reimer), Barney Bentall, and Trooper’s Hot Shots (Tommy Stewart, Frank Ludwig, Doni Underhill, David Wills, Ray Roper). Additionally, musicians from Streetheart (Jeff Neill, Paul McNair) and Seeds of Time (Lindsay Mitchell, John Hall, Al Harlow) will also take the stage.
Bill Allman, the event’s presenter, highlighted the generosity of the performers: “As with previous years, these musicians and friends have generously donated their time and talents for an undertaking that has touched each and every one of their lives, not to mention yours.”
The Rock Beats Cancer concert aims to continue Norton’s legacy by raising funds and awareness for the fight against cancer, with attendees not only enjoying an unforgettable night of live music but also supporting a vital cause.
