For the Kids
They seemed so professional – poised, articulate, and
intelligent on stage. Knowing exactly when to pause for effect, adding a bit of
drama and a dash of humor to the night’s events. And they were kids. Kids
helping kids by throwing a benefit worthy of professionals twice their age and
experience.
The night began with young gals and guys lining the entrance
to The Granada decked out in formal black ties and black dresses, applauding
the patrons who came to support their cause. Kids Helping Kids is a non-profit organization
ran by San Marcos High Schools students that aid other kids in need across the
world. This is the ninth time the group has organized the annual benefit, and
it showed in the execution.
The night was packed with quality music, with singer-song
writer Gavin DeGraw headlining the showcase. But of course KHK had to showcase
one of their own – a young up-and-coming artist from San Marcos, Jazara.
Although the young songstress only performed one song, she set the tone for the
night.
Parachute, a band formed in Charlottesville, warmed up the
crowd with their infectious pop tunes. With four albums and over 10 years
touring under their belt, they really knew how to get the crowd moving. Only a
two-piece this evening, they still managed to get a groove on, forcing the
crowd to their feet and demanding attention in a fashion that only southern gentlemen
know how to do with so much charm. Simple
songs purposely written to impress the ladies did just that as they performed
their hits “She is Love” (think of a scene from One Tree Hill – wait that’s
DeGraw) and “Can’t Help” (think Maroon 5 inspired). Talented and gracious,
Parachute represented what the night was all about as they acknowledged the
hard work that went into making the benefit a success.
And like a boss (bossi?), the kids took to the stage again
to remind the audience why they were here – to raise money for disadvantaged
kids. Again, with poise and intelligence, they broke down what a donation could
bring around the world: $5000 – a year’s college tuition, $1000 – a teacher’s
salary, $500 – HIV treatment. Students
throughout the Granada held flashing paddles up, waiving towards patrons as
they made donations in envelopes provided under each seat. One after another,
paddles lit up, making this quite a successful night.
Then came the main event, Gavin DeGraw. The piano man was
accompanied by a percussionist and a guitarist on an elegant yet simple stage
set. Known for his love songs, DeGraw did not disappoint. “Unlike politics and
cars… Love does not go out of style,” DeGraw declared as started into a love
set, playing selections from his six albums, the latest of which was just
released in September 2016. And he hit the main veins, playing his poignant
break though “Not Over You,” his arduous “Follow Through,” the more upbeat
“Sweeter,” and his latest very danceable “She Sets the World on Fire” (not in
that order). Throughout the set DeGraw was very personable with the crowd, at
one time jumping down and going deep into the crowd to take selfies with lucky
patrons. He too was grateful for the evening, telling the story of how the song
“I Don’t Want to Be” literally got him out of his home town and a life he did
not want to lead.
And sometimes that’s what you need – you need a little push,
a little help, maybe a lot of community to come together showing gratitude for
what they have and compassion for what others do not. And sometimes it takes
kids helping kids to remind us.