“Miami Rocks our Troops” concert

Concert fundraiser benefits non-profit

The “Miami Rocks Our Troops” concert, which was held at the Bank United Center in Coral Gables, housed heroes and musical masters on Saturday night. Countless people gathered to hear great songs and celebrate the sacrifices that men and women have made for their country.
Proceeds for the concert went to the non-profit organization, HonorVet.org an organization dedicated to helping veterans survive life after service.
The musical line-up included the best of the best. Rock and roll hall of famer Billy Gibbons, multi-Grammy award winning Jose Feliciano, the most popular R&B group on YouTube, Ahmir, who has recently scored a record deal with Robbins Entertainment and Billy Ray Cyrus were among the many artists who came out   to perform.
“It was our way to give back,” said Honorvet.org co-founder Jesse Canella.
The concert had something for everyone from country to R&B. The line-up was reflective of HonorVet.org’s innovative and hands on approach to assisting veterans.
“There is a new generation of veterans who use the Internet,” Canella said. “We decided to create an online platform that can help them adjust to life after service.” The non-profit provides online mentoring, networking, job opportunities and numerous services for veterans to utilize.

From online to on stage

R&B group, Ahmir, is very familiar with the benefits of Internet use. The group is the most popular group on YouTube averaging over 65 million video views and comments. The group has been gaining consistent momentum within the past year especially with the Huffington Post naming the group’s cover of P!nk’s song “Perfect” as one of the top anti-bullying PSA.
“These guys are a YouTube sensation their involvement with the concert embodies the concept of the organization and the show,” Canella
The group performed a total of five songs for the evening. Group member Mark Robertson said that there is just something different about the Miami crowd.
“Everyone is just ready to have a good time,” Robertson said. While the group got to sing a few songs, Robertson said that his favorite song to perform on the Miami stage was the group’s new song, “War,” which will be released on iTunes on the singer’s birthday [October 23].
The right place at the right time
Canella, whose central location for his non-profit is based in mid-town Manhattan, said that Miami was the ideal location for a show like the “Miami Rocks Our Troops” concert.
“Miami has a big military presence,” Canella said. “We wanted to show veterans that they are cared for, with this show.”

By Ju’lia Samuels
jsamuels@miamitimesonline.com