Houseman Speaks - courtesy of Michelle Wodzinski

Thanks to everyone who supported our benefit concert at the Hard Rock Cafe Chicago on March 8, 2011, we were able to begin shooting Theryl “Houseman” DeClouet  in Chicago.   Despite a few to be expected production hiccups, we managed to meet many great people and attend several key events such as the Gift of Hope African-American Task Force Debunking the Myth panel and the Living Kidney Donors Network workshop.  Undoubtedly, the highlight of the week was observing Houseman who has been busy songwriting and recording for his new album Houseman in Exile.  Let There Be Life will give Houseman fans an inside look at Houseman’s creative process and what it really means to fight for your art. Teaser footage from the recording sessions will be posted on the film’s Facebook page in the coming weeks so stay connected!

Josh H. Muller & team member - courtesy of John "NuNu" Zomot

We had a true celebration of life last Tuesday at the Hard Rock Cafe Chicago.  Overall, the event was a success! Despite the rain, people showed up ready to celebrate and yet eager to learn more about the documentary and organ donation. Donate Life Illinois was on hand to register organ donors on the spot and share transplant success stories while the Living Kidney Donor Network counseled guests about the importance of living donation.

Music was not the only cultural flavor being served that evening. Mihir Shah, President of Cobra Corn, provided free samples of his Mumbai Masala spiced popcorn throughout the night. I was particularly thrilled to have Mihir at the event given his transplant success story. After having a heart transplant one month ago, Mihir wasted no time getting back on his feet, continuing the launch of his new company.

Mihir Shah - courtesy John "NuNu" Zomot

The night began with BS Brass Band saucing up the crowd with authentic New Orleans Mardi Gras flavor.

BS Brass Band - courtesy of John "NuNu" Zomot

Soon after, we were blessed with a jaw-dropping performance by Jamiah “On Fire” & The Red Machine, three of the most adorable musicians to ever play the blues. Period. Lead guitarist/frontman, Jamiah, only 15 years old, blew us away with Hendrix’s Foxy Lady displaying the passion and grit necessary to do it justice.  The dance floor, balcony, and stairwells were all packed with people in absolute awe.  I’m officially a fan.

Jamiah "On Fire" & the Red Machine - courtesy of John "NuNu" Zomot

Although Vance Kelly’s Purple Rain and Funkedesi’s No Woman No Cry topped my most memorable list, the true climax of the show, however, occurred when special guests, grammy award-winning Malik Yusef and Damon Ranger of Black Box took the stage with Funkedesi, pumping out an energetic eclectic mix of all things funky. A great show of Chicago’s finest talent. Visit the film’s Facebook page to see a short clip of their performance.

In the coming weeks, I look forward to returning to Chicago to begin filming the next phase of the documentary. All funds raised at the event will support the continued filming of Theryl “Houseman” DeClouet’s story and his struggle to revive his singing career while waiting for a kidney transplant. We have not reached our fundraising goal and still need your help to complete the documentary. Donations to the film may still be made here.

Houseman & Jamiah "On Fire" - courtesy of John "NuNu" Zomot

Thanks again to everyone for your support and a very extra special thanks to Scott Fetters, Emily Swan, and the entire Hard Rock Cafe Chicago staff for making this event such a huge success.

I’m pleased to kick-off the LET THERE BE LIFE blog from Chicago where we will be celebrating the third phase of the film’s production with a benefit concert at the Hard Rock Cafe Chicago on March 8, 2011. All proceeds from the event will go toward the continued filming of Houseman “Theryl” DeClouet’s story in the Chicago area. Check out the film’s trailer for a brief introduction to House. Don’t miss the chance to meet House and hear him perform live!  If you or anyone you know are in the Chicago area please join us for an incomprable Mardi Gras celebration.

Tickets Available At: http://www.lettherebelifedocumentary.com/benefit-concert/

Ticket/Price: $25 in advance/ $35 at door
Complimentary New Orleans food and Mardi Gras Drink Specials

More info on featured performing artists:
http://www.malikyusef.com/
http://www.funkadesi.com
http://www.bsbrass.com/
http://www.myspace.com/vancekellyandthebackstreetbluesband
http://www.housemanslounge.com/