Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, the dynamic duo behind numerous smash hits for iconic artists like Janet Jackson and Mariah Carey, are set to be honored with the Vanguard Award at The Guitar Center Music Foundation’s highly anticipated fourth annual Gala and Benefit Concert. The event, scheduled for September 11 at The Maybourne Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, will pay tribute to the Grammy-winning producers for their significant contributions to music education and the industry as a whole.
In a night filled with celebration and recognition, sound mixer John McBride will also be acknowledged with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. McBride, the mastermind behind Blackbird Studio located just outside Nashville, which he established in 2002, and the revered institutional director of The Blackbird Academy, which he founded in 2013, continues to leave an indelible mark on the music scene. Moreover, he is collaboratively linked with country music luminary Martina McBride, a four-time recipient of the CMA Award for female vocalist of the year, making their impact on the industry truly unmatched.
The gala not only serves as a momentous occasion to honor these trailblazers but also as a platform to raise awareness and funds for The Guitar Center Music Foundation’s mission to amplify support for musicians and music education. Additionally, the event will pay homage to the bravery and resilience of firefighters and first responders who valiantly battled the devastating Los Angeles wildfires earlier this year. Efforts will be redoubled towards funding the Guitar Center Music Foundation Disaster Relief Program, which aims to aid musicians affected by the L.A. wildfires by providing assistance in replacing instruments and equipment and offering essential resources.
Renowned musical supervisor Adam Blackstone, acclaimed for his outstanding work as the music director of “The Pepsi Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show” featuring Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, and 50 Cent, will lend his expertise to curate the musical experience at the event. Blackstone, a Primetime Emmy and Grammy award winner, has continually pushed boundaries and set a new standard of excellence in the industry.
The Gala is meticulously produced by the esteemed Guitar Center Music Foundation board of directors in collaboration with Angelia Shepperd from ABS Collective, along with technical production overseen by Nick Urbom from Big Push Media Group. Their collective efforts ensure a seamless and unforgettable evening celebrating musical talent, dedication, and philanthropy.
For those looking to support and engage with The Guitar Center Music Foundation, further information can be found on their website. Tickets for the Gala, starting at $500, are available for purchase via their online platform.
As the music community unites to celebrate excellence, resilience, and the enduring power of music education, The Guitar Center Music Foundation Gala and Benefit Concert promises an evening of inspiration, recognition, and unwavering support for the future of music.
