Hozier, Joan Baez, Van Morrison among artists who turn out to honor Berkeley’s Taj Mahal during Sweet Relief benefit concert in San Francisco
The city of San Francisco was filled with music and philanthropy as some of the most iconic names in the industry came together for a special event. The Sweet Relief benefit concert, held at the legendary Fillmore Auditorium, was a celebration of music and a tribute to the legendary Taj Mahal. The event was a huge success, with a star-studded lineup that included Hozier, Joan Baez, and Van Morrison, who all came out to honor the one and only Taj Mahal.
Taj Mahal has been a pioneering force in the world of music for over five decades. His unique blend of blues, folk, and world music has made him a beloved figure in the industry. However, the musician has faced numerous health challenges over the years that have hindered his ability to perform. This is where Sweet Relief comes in.
Sweet Relief Musicians Fund is a non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to musicians in need. They have been supporting musicians for over 25 years, helping them with medical expenses, housing, and other basic needs. And this year, they chose to honor Taj Mahal in their annual benefit concert.
The evening kicked off with an electrifying performance by Irish singer-songwriter Hozier. He took the stage with his trademark intensity and belted out his hits like “Take Me to Church” and “Nina Cried Power”. The audience was captivated by his soulful voice and powerful lyrics, setting the tone for the rest of the night.
Next up was the legendary Joan Baez, who was a close friend and collaborator of Taj Mahal. She shared heartfelt stories of their time together and dedicated her performance to him. Her voice still as mesmerizing as ever, Baez performed some of her classics including “Diamonds and Rust” and “We Shall Overcome”. The audience was moved by her emotional tribute to Taj Mahal.
But the highlight of the night was, of course, the man of the hour himself – Taj Mahal. The 78-year-old musician, who has been battling the effects of a stroke, made a rare appearance and took the stage to a standing ovation. With his signature resonator guitar in hand, he performed some of his most beloved songs, including “Queen Bee” and “Lovin’ in My Baby’s Eyes”. It was a poignant moment as the audience sang along and showered Taj Mahal with love and admiration.
And the surprises didn’t end there. Van Morrison, known for his soulful voice and poetic lyrics, made a surprise appearance and joined Taj Mahal on stage. The two legends performed a duet of “She Caught the Katy” that left the crowd in awe. It was a truly special moment, showcasing the camaraderie and respect between two musical giants.
The concert also featured performances by other artists such as Keb’ Mo’, Deva Mahal, and Eric Church, all paying tribute to Taj Mahal in their own unique ways. But it wasn’t just about the music, as the event also raised funds for the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, with all proceeds going towards helping musicians in need.
The night ended with a heartfelt thank you from Taj Mahal himself, expressing his gratitude for the support and love shown by everyone present. It was a reminder of the power of music and how it can bring people together for a good cause.
The Sweet Relief benefit concert was a celebration of music, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit. It was a night that will be remembered for years to come, and all thanks to the incredible lineup of artists who came out to honor the one and only Taj Mahal. As we bid farewell to this unforgettable evening, let us remember the words of Taj Mahal himself, “Music is the glue that holds everything together. It is the universal language that connects us all.”
