The David Z Foundation is an organization near and dear to my heart. Paulie Z founded the non-profit organization in memory of his brother, Trans-Siberian Orchestra bassist David Z. The foundation’s mission is to provide underprivileged kids with engaging musical education opportunities. I have been honored to have taken part in many fundraising concerts for the foundation, the latest being a jam to celebrate Paulie Z’s birthday!
A David Z Foundation Jam is always a special event that combines well-known names (Joe Bouchard of Blue Oyster Cult, Ben Weinman of Dillinger Escape Plan, Randy Jackson of Zebra, and many others) with the best local talent. Since the core tenant of the Foundation is to provide music opportunities to kids, no Jam is complete without a set by local School of Rock kids. These kids take the stage and give it their all. They personify what this foundation is all about and it’s always amazing to see future rock stars in action.
Every David Z Foundation Jam promises a great night of rock n’ roll and provides an opportunity to raise money for the Foundation. Proceeds from ticket sales go to the Foundation, and Paulie takes advantage of the immense collection of talent to acquire signatures on a unique Birthday Jam guitar and records to be auctioned off by the Foundation.
The draw of any Jam night is the music, and this one did not disappoint! The night’s theme was celebrating the music of New York and New Jersey. The lineup on stage changes with every song. Most of these musicians have never played together before taking the stage, some have never even met. Music from every New York/New Jersey band you can think of was played, Billy Joel, Skid Row, Beastie Boys, Kiss, Springsteen, and much more.
The stars were out in full force, led by Joe Bouchard, Randy Jackson, and Ben Weinman. Other stars included American Idol’s Constantine Maroulis, Stabbing Westward’s Derrek Hawkins, bassist Greg Smith of Rainbow, Ted Nugent, and others, Alex Salzman of Ace Frehley, and drummer Matt Starr, among many others. Hometown bands Starz and Killcode also joined in the fun.
The David Z Foundation East Coast jam nights usually take place a couple of times annually. Their new home, 89 North, is a perfect venue to experience this unique event. There is ample room to stand in front of the stage, and plenty of tables if you want to sit and enjoy. Sound and lighting are perfect and help create an unforgettable night!
