On Saturday, August 3, The Venue at Canyon House in Mesa will fill its event space with music and generosity in honor of Arizona drummer and musician Charles Lake, who passed away from cancer on April 11, 2024.
The inaugural Beat Cancer Concert will bring together artists and tribute bands from across the U.S., with funds going toward the Lake family and the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children, a nonprofit that provides financial and emotional support for families and loved ones affected by pediatric cancer.
Taking place from 6-9 p.m., the concert will feature acts from TAD Management, a tribute show and concert production company with over 200 artists, bands and acts in its repertoire. This event will celebrate Lake’s enduring legacy and passion for music.
“I got a 2-for-1 when I married Charles. There was Charlie, the devoted husband and daddy, who loved to stay home, watch old movies, and hold barbecues for family and friends. He made traveling an adventure, whether a road trip to Washington or flying to Hawaii,” Terri Lake said. “Then there was Spanky, a professional percussionist and performer. This concert means a lot, and we truly appreciate all the work going on to make this possible. We will honor this wonderful man in the most ‘Spanky’ way possible.”
Performers include Candle in the Wind (a tribute to Elton John), Voyager (a tribute to Journey) and YACHTZILLA!, a yacht rock band.
Since 2021, YACHTZILLA! has sold out casinos, theaters, and other venues all over California, Nevada and Arizona. Lake was the founding drummer, and before he passed, he requested that the band do something for children with cancer and their families. The Beat Cancer Concert was created with the help of TAD Management and the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children.
“Charles “Spanky” Lake was not just a drummer; he was a heartbeat in the music community,” YACHTZILLA founder Jeff Feldman said. “His journey with TAD Management and as a founding member of our band left an indelible mark.”
The Charles Lake’s All-Star Revue, comprised of musicians that Lake previously performed with – including Rich Carlton from ABBAFAB and America the Beautiful, Laura Workman as Chrissie Hynde and Pat Benatar and Victoria Anne Fairclough from Carrie Underwood Tribute and ABBAFAB – will also take the stage.
The evening will be hosted at The Venue at Canyon House, 6159 E. University Dr., Mesa. General admission tickets are $30, and VIP is $75. For more information or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit beatcancerconcert.com.
