Roy Wood to rock it up for Wizzard pal
A star-studded benefit concert featuring Wizzard's Roy Wood and rocker Steve Gibbons will be held on Tuesday to raise funds for leading saxophonist Mike Burney, who has been out of action on the local music scene while fighting cancer.
A whole host of musicians have banded together for the gig – waiving their fees to raise money for the former Wizzard band member, at the Birmingham International Jazz and Blues Festival. This year, the festival's 29th anniversary, will be the first year Mr Burney, renowned as both a top jazz saxophonist and flautist, has been unable to perform.
Steve Gibbons, of the Steve Gibbons Band, described Mr Burney as 'such an important figure in Birmingham music'.
Steve will be joined by Roy Wood and King Pleasure and The Biscuit Boys at the benefit gig for Mr Burney this Tuesday. "We've worked together about 40 times," said Birmingham-born rock legend Gibbons.
"I've know him since the beginning having met him in the early 60s.
"Mike is such an important figure in Birmingham music. There was absolutely no hesitation when I was asked to do this concert."
Wizzard frontman Roy Wood expressed his concern for his old friend, with whom he worked on hit singles I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday and See My Baby Jive.
"I learned a lot from him," said Birmingham star Roy. "I sincerely hope that Mike will get back to form and make a full recovery." The benefit concert takes place at The Asylum Venue in Hampton Street, Hockley.
Tickets cost £10 and the doors open at 7.30pm. The festival is open to over 18s only. To buy tickets visit www.theticketsellers.co.uk/tickets/mike-burneys-benefit/10026433
