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Spirit Of John Benefit Features A Platinum Single Presentation

Inspired by Spirit Of The West singer John Mann, this annual fundraiser for The Alzheimer Society Music Project regularly draws star guests. This year's event featured a special honour for the host band (pictured).

Spirit Of John Benefit Features A Platinum Single Presentation

By FYI Staff

Toronto’s Phoenix Concert Theatre recently hosted the annual Spirit of John concert benefiting The Alzheimer Society Music Project, which helps those who have dementia rediscover pleasure in the world through the power of music.


The concert series began in 2015 when Spirit of the West singer and main co-writer John Mann was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s. Joining SOTW on stage were guests including Serena Ryder, Jim Cuddy, Jessica Mitchell, Royal Wood, all exchanging vocal duties.

During the intermission and live auction led by the Alzheimer Society of Toronto, the band surprised fans with the news their classic hit “Home For A Rest,” performed earlier in the evening with Damhnait Doyle, had now officially reached Platinum status in Canada. Members of True North Records’ team then brought an official custom Platinum plaque on stage, which the band members autographed and auctioned off. The song is featured on the group's 1990 album, Save This House, and its video, is now approaching 1M YouTube views. More info on The Alzheimer Society Music Project here.

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FYI

Music News Digest: Calgary's Sled Island Announces 2026 Lineup, An All-Star Tribute to Dave Bookman in Toronto

Also this week: SOCAN elects its new board of directors, Headwater Music Group partners with ADA Canada to support blues-rock artist Jimi, Miranda Mulholland's Muskoka Music Festival turns 10 and more.

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Emerging acts joining this year’s lineup include award-winning Plains Cree hip-hop artist Drezus, Winnipeg indie rockers Virgo Rising, Whitehorse-based “gateway metal” duo FRANKLIN, ambient pedal steel performer Wayne Patrick Garrett, dance-inspired electronic artist Eejungmi, San Francisco experimental pop project Tricky FM, Toronto-based art rockers Kali Horse, high-energy cow-punk ensemble Spank Williams, post-hardcore powerhouse Midnight Peg, operatic post-punk four-piece Shunk and many, many more. There'll also be comedy acts, a drag brunch, DJ sets and an art exhibit, plus conference panels in the Central Library on June 19. Passes and tickets are on sale now here.

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