Shakey Graves packed Far Out for SIMS Foundation benefit
Last Friday evening, Far Out Lounge and Stage hosted a benefit for musicians mental health organization, The SIMS Foundation, For the Love of SIMS that featured local hero, Shakey Graves. Original headliner, Sir Woman had to bow out (for family reasons) but Austin’s hometown hero stepped up despite being out of state the evening before, nearly pulling an all-nighter to make the show.
The announcement of Graves as the headliner had the effect of turbo-charging an already anticipated show with LBGTQA hip-hop artist Mama Duke and songstress, Torre Blake. By the time Mama Duke was wrapping up her smooth flowing rhymes for Shakey’s performance, Far Out was looking at a packed house underneath the outdoor tent in front of the stage.
SIMS Executive Director, Patricia Dolan Bouressa made some remarks and thanked Shakey for his generosity before the singer showcased some new songs in a mostly solo set that began with a full band on stage featuring members of Sir Woman and actress and singer Stephanie Hunt (Buffalo Hunt) who also happens to be Shakey’s partner.
The band, however quickly departed the stage leaving Graves with his vintage converted suitcase/kick drum contraption that he plays while leading on guitar and singing. The man is truly talented and entertained the overflowing tent at Far Out for a full 75 minutes without a set break. The SIMS Foundation benefit was a rousing success, solidifying the deepening partnership between venue operators The Far Out Lounge and Stage and SIMS.
If you missed the show, SIMS is participating in a number of events next month during SXSW and following. Check the NPO’s event calendar for more details. Support SIMS Foundation by visiting their donation page or texting SIMS to 44321.
Browse images from the show below by Michael Maly
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