Daughter leads bands in benefit for mother

Tami-Lu Berry is familiar to the Asheville community as an exuberant, artistic, energetic spirit who has brought joy to many with her singing, dancing and humor. In September 2015 she was diagnosed with stage 4 cervical cancer and has undergone major surgery and chemotherapy. Now in remission, exploring future treatment and prevention pathways, Berry faces continuing costs in regaining and maintaining her health.

The community will have the opportunity to help in her recovery when White Horse Black Mountain hosts 70s Disco Dance Party: Benefit for Tami-Lu on Sunday, May 22.

Live music will be provided by the Free Flow Band, a reunited Skinny Legs and All, Jesse Barry and the Jam, and many more special guests. In the spirit of the event, ‘70s attire is encouraged. The list of musical entertainers reads like a “best of” list.

The Free Flow Band is a funky dance outfit with its own sound and mission of getting people on the dance floor. Band members Kazual Collins, Lil’ Rog, Black Note and LT are a virtual who’s who of Carolina “funkateers.”

Skinny Legs and All formed in the jam band elective class at Evergreen Community Charter School while still in middle school. Its funky blues-rock soul sound made it audience and critical favorites at a tender age, and the band played together for seven years before disbanding. Most of the original lineup will get back together for the benefit. Lead singer Jesse Barry competed on American Idol in 2010 and later went on the form Jesse Barry and the Jam, also on the bill.

Other special guest include Peggy Ratusz, Henry Westmoreland (Hank West & The Smokin' Hots, Firecracker Jazz Band, Empire Strikes Brass), Jerome Widenhouse (Firecracker Jazz Band, Empire Strikes Brass), Earl Sachais (Firecracker Jazz Band), CaroMia Tiller (Siamese Jazz Club, Goldie & The Screamers), Daniel Iannucci, Simon George (Siamese Jazz Club), Phill Bronson (Siamese Jazz Club, Tuesday Night Funk Jam), Micah Thomas, Aaron Price, Robert Geisler (Jim Arrendell & The Cheap Suits), Sean Anderson (Virginia & The Slims), Kelly Jones, Brian Beall, Paula Nelson, Evalina Everidge, Jenna Jaspreet and Michelle Blake.

Benefit for Berry

What: Benefit for Tami-Lu Berry

When: 5 p.m. May 22

Where: White Horse Black Mountain

Cost: $20 advance, $25 door