Veterans the real stars at rock tribute show

April 08--A rocking good time with a purpose in coming to the area.

Gary Racan and the Studio-E Band's Warriors Rock concert will be performed at 7 p.m.April 22 in the auditorium of Forest Hills High School, 489 Locust St., Sidman.

Kim Racan, manager of the band and co-founder of Warriors Rock, said the concert is a tribute to veterans and will showcase local veterans throughout the show.

Behind the band will be a large screen that will feature prerecorded interviews from 10 Johnstown area veterans.

"The veteran will introduce himself or herself, say what branch they served in and where they served," Racan said.

"The veterans we interview are the real rock stars of the night because you're seeing them larger than life on screen."

Every interview will end with a song that reminded them of home while they were deployed.

"The band will then kick into that song," Racan said.

Music performed will cover all genres of styles.

"Whether you're 18 or 80 the music is from all the decades," Racan said. "It's a variety band with eight vocalists, a horn section and fiddles, so whatever genre of music is requested the band can play that song like the original artist."

At the end of the show, veterans and active military in the attendance are brought to the front of the stage and sing "God Bless The USA."

"We also give flags out to the audience," Racan said. "It's really a renewal of patriotism at the end."

She said the goal of the show is not only to entertain people, but have them remember those who are currently serving overseas.

"While we are having a great time, there are people right now who are protecting our freedom," Racan said.

Proceeds from the show will benefit Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and veterans.

They are available by calling 412-401-1044 or online at www.warriorsrock.org.

Kelly Urban is a reporter for The Tribune-Democrat. She can be reached at (814) 532-5073. Follow her on Twitter @KellyUrban25.

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