Mermaid Avenue Sessions Tribute at Baja: A Benefit for Aleks

Mermaid Avenue: A Tribute Concert & Community Benefit Sunday, Aug 16 • Baja Bean Co.(bar side) • Downtown Staunton Join us for a special evening celebrating the music of Mermaid Avenue Sessions while coming together to support one of our own. Released in the late 1990s, Mermaid Avenue was the landmark collaboration that brought hundreds of previously unpublished lyrics by legendary folk songwriter Woody Guthrie to life through new music by Billy Bragg and Wilco. The project revealed a side of Guthrie many had never heard—songs filled with love, humor, family, hope, and everyday life—and remains one of the most celebrated collaborations in modern American roots music. In that same spirit of community, compassion, and shared music, we’ll gather at Baja for an evening featuring many of Staunton’s favorite musicians. Like the beloved Icon Nights, performers will share the stage with a common backline and house PA, each offering songs from the Mermaid Avenue sessions. The evening will also benefit the family of our friend and neighbor, Courtney Spencer Cranor, who has spent the past several years as the full-time caregiver for her eldest child, Aleks, whose severe illness has resulted in the loss of much of her physical function. The emotional, physical, and financial challenges have been overwhelming, with medical and caregiving expenses exponentially rising as out-of-pocket costs grow while benefits are being reduced. Courtney recently shared: “I’ve really tried not to have a fundraising effort but, I’m honestly looking at close to $200,000 out-of-pocket expenses related to that care over the next two years. No matter how hard I try, I will not be able to do it alone.” Let’s rally around this incredible family the way our music community always does—through generosity, friendship, and the healing power of song. It will be a memorable night of music, connection, and support for one of our own. If you’re unable to attend but would like to help, donations may be made through UGiftAble (Gift Code: X5X-J0K for Aleksandra Schmidt) or via Venmo: @Josie-Cranor (memo: “for Aleks”). If you’re interested in participating as a performer, please email Molly@queencitymusicstudios.com The list of performers includes: Peter Aaslestad • Jeanne Bishop • Josie Cranor • Sally Davis • Danny Dolinger • Erin Hunter • William Lott • Nathan Scott Moore • Allan Moye • Molly Rose Murphy • Chad Pelton • Sarah Frances Roberson • Pete Stallings • Laura Sutton • Steve Sutton • and more… Suggested Donation: $10 – $20 (+) at the door