In these unprecedented times, musicians and venue workers are some of the hardest hit economically. Primarily living in the gig economy, once the venues closed, there was nowhere for these citizens to turn so that they can earn a living – to pay their rent, to buy food, to care for their children.  Cleveland Rocks launched the NEO Music Relief Fund to provide direct financial support to those in need.  And as the pandemic wears on, with no end in sight, and venues not opening, musicians continue to struggle.  Through the series Wednesday Songs & Stages, and the one-time in-person live concert experience, Cleveland Rocks will raise vital funding for all five shows and hire 10 of the musicians who received support from the Relief Fund. 

We are doing this because we know we are helping, as noted in the following:

"This is amazing! I'm sincerely humbled and honored to be awarded with this grant. Thank you so much for including me and shedding a light on our homegrown musicians. Down to the dirt though, this will be hugely helpful to our family. Thank you so much!"  ~Brent Kirby

"Oh my goodness. I don't know what to say besides thank you. I am so grateful. Please let me know any way I can help you. All the best in the outstanding work you are doing! Peace, wellness, and gratitude." ~Ray Flanagan