Quite Prepared For This Eventuality

Note: A glitch on the Martyrs’ website ticket link yesterday gave the impression that My Sweet George had sold out. Earlier today, Facebook posts by co-hosts Ellis Clark and Ary Paloma explained that there are indeed still tickets available. Those interested in attending should buy their tickets via the new link. 

This Saturday night (February 25), several Chicago area musicians will gather at Martyrs’ on Lincoln Avenue for the annual My Sweet George George Harrison birthday tribute concert. The six-hour event will start at 7:00 pm, with Ellis Clark and Ary Paloma once again serving as hosts. Emcee Ken Mottet will also return, to introduce the various acts and offer an occasional joke or celebrity anecdote.

Clark was a founding member of Epicycle, one of Chicago’s first punk bands, as well as Social Act. He’s also a successful solo recording artist and producer. Ary Paloma Jeebie is the lead vocalist for the always-fun garage/rockabilly band Amazing Heeby Jeebies. Clark and Paloma have brought their My Sweet George show to Fest For Beatles Fans - Chicago a number of times, and they also perform and record as the psychedelic country music duo Big Hair Big Trouble.

Performers for this year’s tribute include The My Sweet George Band; Clar Monaco/Sandalwood Sitar; The Pepperland Rockestra; Tommy Klein from Liquid Soul and Spies Who Surf; Soulkeeper Gerald McClendon; The Handcuffs; Noami Ashley Band; Secret 4; Pierce Crask; Twisted Roots; The Fluffers; Greg Jacks and Brother Hope; Frankie B; 321; and Sgt. Sauerkraut’s Polka Band. The list on the Martyrs’ website differs slightly from what the organizers are posting on Facebook, so I’ve only shown the Facebook-listed acts. At any rate, there will be several talented musicians covering the George Harrison songbook.

If previous years are any indication, the selection of Harrison material performed will range from hit singles to deep tracks and rarities. It’s also fun seeing musicians from different groups join together on stage. The event will help the MusiCares nonprofit charity organization. There will also be a limited supply of My Sweet George t-shirts for sale.