Concord Couch Concerts Showcase Local Music Scene

CONCORD, CA — One positive outcome of the coronavirus quarantine is Concord Couch Concerts, a network of local, independent musicians who launched a virtual concert series viewed by hundreds live and thousands more in replays.

Episode 1 streamed May 1 on Facebook Live as a two-hour, 12-act performance that in addition to entertaining and giving local musicians some exposure, brought in donations for a good cause: the recently established Concord Community Foundation.

The event raised more than $1,200 for CCF, a subsidiary of Todos Santos Business Association Arts Foundation, which was established to help provide food and shelter to Concord’s most vulnerable residents.

Episode 2 of Concord Couch Concerts is set to begin at 8 p.m. Friday following roughly the same format, though there are currently no plans to partner with any fundraising efforts beyond some virtual tip jars for the musical acts, the group said in a news release.

"Fundraising can be difficult, even when times aren’t so uncertain," said CCC Founder Dave Hughes. "Given that, we were happy to see CCF’s total funds grow by around 25 percent from our effort. Like those folks at home watching, a lot of these artists have no clear source of revenue right now. With gatherings forbidden, gigs are obsolete. Some of our performers rely heavily on album sales and tips."

This Friday’s follow-up includes performances by Swoon, Tay & the JangLahDahs, and Scam Tramp, as well as band members from local groups Friends With Pills, SunBabi, Marshmallow Dream Sequence, and more.

Performer Fred Hersom said it was the Concord music scene that spurred him to venture into playing live — something he never imagined he would or could do.

"Not only did the great musical talent in Concord inspire me to give it a try, but also the amazing support, camaraderie, and celebration of my halting steps forward that encouraged me to persevere," Hersom said.

Among the viewers expected to return for the second set is Concord Mayor Tim McGallian.

"My wife and I had a great time discovering some amazing new local talent from our couch, and can’t wait to see the next episode," McGallian said. "Also, thanks to all the artists who helped raise almost $1,500 for the Concord Community Foundation."

Performer, organizer and co-host Vince Lay said the first episode gave a glimpse of Concord’s vibrant music scene.

"We want to build off that and showcase Concord as one of several centerpieces of the greater Bay Area music scene!" Lay said.

A complete list of Friday's is at CCC’s Facebook page, where the episode is to be livestreamed.

Community members who'd like to help or contribute to the effort, there's also a Facebook group with over 1,000 members.