Photo Credit: Marc Millman

On Monday, May 15, the 8th annual Steve Earle hosted event, John Henry’s Friends Benefit, took place at Town Hall in New York City. The 90-minute affair boasted a guitar pull featuring billed performers such as David Byrne, Kurt Vile, Terry Allen, and the night’s lead, Earle.

The occasion benefited The Keswell School, an educational program for children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, an educational institution which Earle’s son Henry attends. In addition to commentary urging attendees to support the night’s charitable cause, musicians tossed stories and memories at the crowd adding to the intimate nature of the evening.

Highlights from the night included Byrne’s debut of two new numbers, “We Are Not” and “Lullaby,” penned for the forthcoming cinematic adaptation of Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory, shortened to Wonka for the upcoming 2023 film. Also added to the night’s mix of musical performances was a take on the Talking Heads fan favorite, “(Nothing But) Flowers” and “Buck Naked,” featuring support from Allen. 

Read more about the event here. To donate to the night’s charitable cause, visit keswellschool.com. 

Photographer Bill Kelly was in attendance and shared select shots from the show. Scroll down to view.