If there were an opportunity to see a few popular musical acts streaming live online for less than $10, would you take part in it? How about if all proceeds went to a charity, instead of the artists themselves?
For about two years, singer and song-writer Ryan Cabrera, has been hosting a live show, right out of his living room, featuring well known and up-and-coming artists all in one set.
The series, known as “Live from Ryan’s Living Room,” is based in LA and has hosted about 10 events that has raised over $23,000. All proceeds have gone to various charities such as the American Red Cross, MS Society, Starlight Children’s Foundation and most recently, the Sidewalk Angels Foundation which funds no-kill animal shelters and rescues.
Artists such as Gavin Degraw, Mark Ballas, Tyler Hilton and Yellowcard have made appearances on past events, singing a few of their favorite and most well known songs.
The March event’s line-up included performances from We the Kings, The Ready Set, Quote Unquote, Ryan Edgar, comedian Theo Von (the first to ever be showcased) and other musical guests.
“We got involved with Ryan’s living room show because he is a good friend of ours and that’s what the living room shows are all about,” said Zach Chaney, of the band Quote Unquote. “It’s a bunch of friends performing good music for a good cause.”
The idea stemmed from Cabrera holding jam sessions at his house with a few of his musician friends, when the thought occurred to him that he could turn it into a charitable experience.
All artists that are invited to play are friends of his, or friends of friends who love music and just want to hang out and have a good time.
“I came up with the thought to use the music to help benefit different charities,” Cabrera said, in regards to turning a jam session with friends into something profitable for a good cause. “I’ve always been a big advocate for using the beauty of music to help others so it was a no-brainer for me.”
To take part in future charity events, viewers can go directly to the live stream on VyRT.com and purchase special access packages ranging from $5-$50, or they can visit Cabrera’s personal website and click the headline. Viewers are able to purchase a digital copy of the show to watch again at a later time.
At the actual event, there is a live audience of friends and family of the artists, to give the show a more authentic feel. They are also encouraged to donate any amount they wish to the charity while enjoying snacks and beverages provided by guests.
“It’s a great way to help out and do your part, but kind of in a non-conventional way,” said Sarah Minders, attendee of the event. “It kind of wakes you up to different charities that you may not have heard of other wise.”
Cabrera, who at the time of the last show, had not put out a new album since 2008, was able to celebrate the release of his EP “Wake Up Beautiful” at the event as well. Normally, he only showcases other talents instead of his own, but this particular day was very special for him.
“My EP drops in two days,” he said to a cheering audience before he closed the show and added that his new single, “Sing Along” better not appear on YouTube.
Cabrera explained that it is hard to plan these events far in advance since many artists may not be available or plans can change at a moments notice, but he has many friends who have expressed interest in a future event that works with their schedule.
“I still have talks with many artists friends who want to be involved,” Cabrera said. “Some of those being Colbie Caillat, Walk the Moon, Bonnie McKee, The Veronica’s, Lifehouse and O-Town.”
Cabrera has just hit the road with Secondhand Serenade to tour the U.S., so the next event won’t be for a few months. Look for the next event and charity it supports to be announced on www.ryancabrera.com.
Information about the Sidewalk Angels Foundation can be found at www.sidewalkangelsfoundation.org.
